Former Super Eagles striker Brown Ideye has officially announced his retirement from professional football, bringing to a close a career that stretched nearly two decades across Europe, Asia, and Africa.
The 36-year-old forward made the announcement on his social media pages on Wednesday, expressing gratitude to God, his family, teammates, fans, and everyone who supported his journey.
“After much thought and consideration with mixed emotions, I’ve decided to retire from professional football,” Ideye wrote. “I will first like to thank God for the talent and the long career I’ve enjoyed.”
Ideye’s journey in football began in Nigeria with Ocean Boys and Enyimba before he secured a move abroad. His prolific scoring ability soon caught attention, leading him to Europe where he played for Swiss side Neuchâtel Xamax, French club Sochaux, and later Ukrainian giants Dynamo Kyiv.
It was at Dynamo Kyiv that he truly made his mark, winning domestic trophies and establishing himself as one of Nigeria’s most reliable forwards. His performances in Ukraine earned him a move to the English Premier League with West Bromwich Albion in 2014.
At West Brom, Ideye became the club’s then-record signing and enjoyed a memorable season in England before moving to Greece to play for Olympiacos. He later took his talents to Asia with Chinese Super League side Tianjin Teda, before short spells at Malaga in Spain, Aris Thessaloniki in Greece, and Göztepe in Turkey.
Despite playing on three continents, Ideye always remained committed to the Nigerian national team. He represented the Super Eagles 27 times, scoring six goals and playing a key role in the squad that won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations under the late coach Stephen Keshi.
Reflecting on his career, Ideye praised his family and friends for keeping him grounded through the highs and lows of football. “This game made me and gave me everything — incredible joy, sad days, the opportunity to travel and see the world, lifelong friendships and so many unforgettable memories,” he said.
The striker also extended appreciation to agents, coaches, and journalists who worked behind the scenes throughout his career.
“To all the agents who worked tirelessly and negotiated with clubs for my dreams to come true — thank you. To every club I’ve had the honour of representing, every coach and teammate who pushed me, and every fan who supported me through highs and lows — thank you,” Ideye added.
Tributes have since poured in from fans, fellow footballers, and clubs he represented, with many hailing him as a disciplined professional who left a lasting mark both on and off the pitch.
As he bows out from professional football, Brown Ideye’s legacy remains tied not just to his club achievements but also to Nigeria’s triumphant 2013 AFCON campaign, where he helped the Super Eagles lift their third continental title.
For Nigerian football, his retirement marks the end of an era for one of its most dedicated and widely travelled strikers.
