Former Nigeria international and striker Anthony Ujah has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 34.
The news came via an emotional Instagram post on Friday, in which Ujah confirmed he is stepping away from the game with immediate effect.
Ujah spent much of his career in Germany, most notably at FC Köln, where he became a club legend for his role in helping the team secure promotion to the Bundesliga and for his celebrated goal-scoring feats, including a memorable celebration with the club’s goat mascot.
Over a professional career spanning 15 years, he scored 113 goals across several clubs in Europe and Africa. The pinnacle of his club career was winning the German 2. Bundesliga title with FC Köln in 2014.
Reflecting on his decision, Ujah wrote: “Today, I make the toughest decision of my life, retiring from professional football. I also want to thank every club I have played for, every coach who believed in me, and every teammate who fought beside me on the pitch. Together, we’ve shared victories that will forever warm my heart and defeats that taught me resilience. Fulfilling a childhood dream of playing for my country is one I will forever live to cherish.”
Ujah spent his final playing season at Bulgarian club Botev Plovdiv, where injuries limited him to just five appearances and two goals.
A persistent knee injury forced him to miss 40 games, contributing to his decision to retire.
“Football has been more than a game for me; it has been my passion, my identity, my home. I will truly miss the emotions, the atmosphere, the dressing room laughter, the celebrations, and even the hard days that made the good ones sweeter. A new chapter begins, but my love for football will never end,” he added.
On the international stage, Ujah featured seven times for the Super Eagles without scoring, yet his contributions at club level earned him respect and admiration across Europe.
His career remains a testament to perseverance, goal-scoring prowess, and a deep commitment to the sport.
As he closes this chapter, football fans in Nigeria and abroad remember Ujah not just for his goals but for his charisma, dedication, and the joy he brought to the pitch throughout his career.
