Former Super Eagles striker and 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) winner, Brown Ideye, has officially announced his retirement from professional football, drawing the curtain on a career that spanned nearly two decades across Europe, Asia, and Africa. The 36-year-old made the announcement in a heartfelt message on his social media platforms, bringing an end to a journey that saw him play at the highest levels of the game.

“After much thought and consideration with mixed emotions, I’ve decided to retire from professional football,” Ideye wrote in his statement on Tuesday night. He went on to express immense gratitude to everyone who had a part in his professional life, from his family and friends to his agents, coaches, and the numerous clubs he had the honor of representing.

For many Nigerian football fans, Ideye will be remembered for his crucial role in the historic 2013 AFCON win in South Africa. He was a key figure in the squad led by the late coach Stephen Keshi, playing in every match and scoring a decisive goal in the semi-final against Mali. He earned a total of 28 caps for Nigeria, scoring six goals during his time with the national team.

At the club level, Ideye was a true journeyman, showcasing his talents across various leagues. His most notable achievements include winning two Greek Super League titles with Olympiacos and the Ukrainian Cup with Dynamo Kyiv. He also had a memorable but brief stint in the English Premier League with West Bromwich Albion, where he became the club’s record signing at the time. After spells in China, Spain, and Turkey, he returned to Nigeria in 2024 to play for Enyimba International FC.

In his retirement statement, Ideye made it clear that while his playing days are over, his connection to the game is not. “Though my time as a pro-player has come to an end, football will always be a part of my life as I enter my next chapter,” he stated. That next chapter has already begun, as the former striker recently took on a new role as the Director of Player Pathways and Partnerships at Atlantic Business FC in Lagos, a move that signals his commitment to nurturing the next generation of Nigerian football talent.