By Fakande Oluwamayowa
Former Super Eagles forward Brown Ideye has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 36.
The ex-international, who last played for nine-time Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions Enyimba, shared the news on social media, describing the decision as one filled with “mixed emotions.”
“After much thought and consideration, I’ve decided to retire from professional football,” Ideye wrote. “I thank God for the talent and long career I enjoyed, my family and friends for their unwavering support, and everyone who stood by me through the highs and lows.”
In his emotional farewell, the striker expressed gratitude to agents, coaches, teammates, journalists, and fans, noting that football gave him “incredible joy, sad days, opportunities to travel the world, lifelong friendships, and unforgettable memories.”
Ideye made his breakthrough with Nigeria’s Flying Eagles at the 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Canada, before earning a place in the senior national team, where he scored six goals in 28 appearances for the Super Eagles.
Over the course of his career, he featured for clubs across England, Turkey, Greece, Spain, and France, building a reputation as a hardworking forward.
“Thank you, Nigeria, for the opportunity to wear the national colours and be among the Super Eagles,” he said, adding that while his professional career has ended, football “will always remain a part of his life.”
