In the house of Ghanaian football icons, Mohammed Gargo shines as one of the brightest stars, a trailblazer whose influence extends far beyond the pitch.
His story intertwines talent, mentorship, and resilience, leaving an indelible mark on the history of Ghanaian and international football. Known by various nicknames—“Powerful 6,” “Mimo,” and “Gargo Shot”, Gargo’s journey is a testament to his versatility, power, and passion for the beautiful game.
Born with an incredible talent, Mohammed Gargo’s football journey began at Real Tamale United (RTU), a club known for nurturing some of Ghana’s finest players in the country’s North.
In 1991, Gargo burst onto the global stage as part of Ghana’s U-17 team, the Black Starlets, at the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Italy. His commanding presence and relentless energy were pivotal as Ghana clinched the title.
At a time when few Ghanaian players ventured into European football, Mohammed Gargo led the charge. His transfer to Torino in the Italian Serie A in the early 1990s was not just a personal milestone, it was a gateway for his countryman, Osei Kuffour.
Gargo insisted that the deal include Kuffour, who would later become one of Africa’s most decorated defenders.
Gargo’s career in Italy spanned nearly two decades, with stints at Torino, Udinese, Genoa, and Venezia. At Udinese, where he spent the longest period, his adaptability shone as he excelled in various roles on and off the pitch.
Beyond his club career, Gargo was a stalwart of Ghana’s national teams. He played at every level of the male national teams, from the U-17 to the senior national team, the Black Stars.
Notable highlights in his international career include winning bronze at the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona with Ghana’s Olympic team and participating in several African Cup of Nations tournaments.
Gargo’s influence as a mentor is legendary. One of the most iconic stories comes from Stephen Appiah, the former Black Stars captain, who credits Gargo for jumpstarting his professional career.
During a friendly match against Sturm Graz, Gargo faked an injury to give Appiah a chance to play. Appiah seized the moment, scoring a stunning goal that secured him a contract with Udinese.
Recalling the pivotal moment, Appiah shared, after being honoured at the Emy Africa Awards, 2024.
“I would like to thank the founder of my team, Mighty Victory. I would also like to thank all the players I played with from U-14 to the Black Stars. I travelled to Italy as a guy from Chorkor who knew nothing about the Italian weather and cuisine”.
“Yes, I was doing so well at Accra Hearts of Oak and got found by a scout from Italy. Gago Mohammed is the one who made everything possible. Every time I see him, I bow because I appreciate what he has done in my life,” Appiah added.
Appiah continued, recounting the details of the match: “I remember I was with the junior side and hadn’t signed my contract yet. The senior side played a friendly against Sturm Graz from Austria.”
“In the 80th minute, Gargo Mohammed faked an injury for me to have the chance to have a feel of the game. I came in and scored a goal from 25 yards, and the next day I was in the Italian newspapers. I called Gargo and said there is an article about me. I went to his house, and he explained that the coach had instructed the club to close my deal. After two days, I signed my first international contract.”
Appiah went on to play with Gargo at Udinese, where both players made significant contributions to the club and continued to build their legacy as Ghanaian footballing icons.
Off the pitch, Mohammed Gargo was as charismatic as he was powerful on it. His posh lifestyle made him a fan favorite.
Even in retirement, Gargo remains an icon, celebrated for his contributions to football and his enduring commitment to Ghana football.