Chukwuemeka Ademola Amachi Aneke, known as Chuks Aneke, announced that he is stopping his playing career on his official Instagram page on Wednesday. The thirty-three-year-old former striker shared a video montage containing some of his top highlights alongside a statement reading, “I'd like to officially announce my retirement from professional football.”
He added, “Also, I'd like to express my gratitude to all the coaches all the staff, my teachers, my friends and my family and the fans, the ones who supported me and the ones who didn't. It was all part of an amazing journey and I wouldn't change it. Looking forward to the Second Half ⭕️. God bless ❤️”
Messages of praise followed his announcement. A follower wrote, “What a guy man ❤️🔥good luck in the next chapter.” Former Arsenal academy team-mate Chuba Akpom posted, “An inspiration from early ♥️.” Stevenage Town's official account stated, “Congratulations on a fantastic career, Chuks. All the best for what's next!” Crewe Alexandra commented, “What a career, Chuks ❤️. All the best for everything you have planned 👊.”
Aneke entered Arsenal's academy in 2001 when he was seven years old. He appeared once for the Gunners in a 2011 League Cup match against Shrewsbury Town, which happened to be the final club of his career. He spent four periods on loan with Stevenage, Preston North End, and twice with Crewe Alexandra, before permanently departing the club in 2014 to sign with Zulte Waregem. Subsequent spells followed with MK Dons, Birmingham City, Charlton Athletic, and Shrewsbury. Shrewsbury stated in January that Aneke would transition from his playing duties into a scouting and analytical position.
