Trabzonspor's Nigerian striker Anthony Nwakaeme is set to retire from professional football at the end of the current campaign, according to Soccernet.ng.
Nwakaeme has established himself as a legend at Trabzonspor. Since first joining the club in 2018, he played a pivotal role in their Super Lig title win during the 2021/22 season, contributing 13 goals and 10 assists in 30 appearances.
Immediately following that stellar campaign, he departed for the Saudi Arabian club Al Fayha. However, the move was short-lived, and Nwakaeme returned to Trabzonspor just two seasons later.
Upon his return, the striker signed a deal keeping him at the club until 2026. But he has not been a regular starter this season, as coach Fatih Tekke has understandably placed his trust in the squad's younger players.
Nonetheless, Nwakaeme remains a prominent figure at Trabzonspor. His legacy is literally set in stone; the club erected a statue of him after he led them to the league title.
But in the meantime, his contract is set to expire at the end of the season, and there are no renewal negotiations underway.
Anthony Nwakaeme Decides On Next Move After Trabzonspor
Anthomy Nwakaeme has insisted he will not be leaving Trabzonspor at the end of the season.
According to a report by NTV Spor on Monday, the 36-year-old plans to retire from playing football at the end of the campaign and transition directly into a role on the club's coaching staff which has been offered to him.
Nwakaeme has been a great servant of Trabzonspor and also has a very good relationship with coach Fatih Tekke, so he would fit right in.
From a Nigerian perspective, it would be a very good one, as there are not many former Super Eagles stars who have got opportunities to coach in big European clubs.
