Former Super Eagles striker Brown Ideye announced his retirement from professional football on August 19, 2025, ending a remarkable career that spanned nearly two decades across Europe, Asia, and Africa. The 36-year-old, who won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with Nigeria, shared his decision in a heartfelt post on his X handle, saying, “After much thought and consideration with mixed emotions, I’ve decided to retire from professional football. I will first like to thank God for the talent and the long career I’ve enjoyed.” Ideye, whose final match was with Enyimba FC in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) against Plateau United in May 2025, expressed gratitude to his family, fans, agents, and journalists for their support.
Ideye’s career began with Bayelsa United and Ocean Boys, where he won the NPFL title in 2006, before moving to Europe in 2008 with Swiss club Neuchâtel Xamax. He later played for prominent clubs like FC Sochaux (France), Dynamo Kyiv (Ukraine), West Bromwich Albion (England), Olympiacos (Greece), and Málaga (Spain), among others, amassing 45 goals in 107 matches for Dynamo Kyiv alone. His international career, spanning 2010 to 2016, included 28 caps and six goals for Nigeria, with a standout role in the 2013 AFCON triumph under coach Stephen Keshi. “Thank you, Nigeria, for the opportunity to wear the national colour,” Ideye wrote, reflecting on his Super Eagles tenure, which also included appearances at the 2010 FIFA World Cup and 2013 Confederations Cup.
Recently appointed Director of Player Pathways and Partnerships at Atlantic Business FC in July 2025, Ideye hinted at staying involved in football, stating, “Though my time as a pro-player has ended, football will always be a part of my life.” Fans and analysts on have praised his legacy, with some urging him to pursue coaching or football development to inspire the next generation.
