Ex-Super Eagles Striker Anthony Ujah Announces Retirement at 34

Former Nigerian international, Anthony Ujah, has called time on his professional football career at the age of 34.

The striker, who enjoyed most of his playing days in Germany, confirmed his retirement on Friday in an emotional Instagram post. Ujah most recently featured for Bulgarian side Botev Plovdiv, where injuries limited his appearances last season.

“Today, I make the toughest decision of my life, retiring from professional football,” Ujah wrote. He expressed gratitude to the clubs, coaches, and teammates who shared his journey, while noting that representing the Super Eagles was a lifelong dream come true.

Ujah endured a difficult final campaign in Bulgaria, missing 40 matches due to a persistent knee injury. Despite limited opportunities, he scored twice in just five appearances before his contract expired in July.

The forward remains a cult hero at German club FC Köln, where his goals powered the team’s promotion to the Bundesliga in 2014. His memorable celebration with the club’s goat mascot endeared him further to fans.

Across a 15-year career, Ujah netted 113 goals and lifted the German 2. Bundesliga title with Köln. He earned seven caps for Nigeria but never managed to score for the national team.

Reflecting on his career, Ujah described football as more than a profession. “Football has been my passion, my identity, my home,” he said. “I will miss the emotions, the 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.”