Former Togo captain Emmanuel Adebayor has officially announced his retirement from professional football.
The 39-year-old striker confirmed he was calling time on his 22-year career in a video posted on his Instagram page.
“From the highs to the lows, my career as a professional athlete has been an incredible journey,” he said.
“Thank you to my fans for being there every step of the way. I am feeling so grateful for everything and I am excited for what is to come.”
Adebayor began his professional career with Togolese club AC Merlan Lome before securing a transfer to Europe and signing with FC Metz as a young player.
During his illustrious career, he played for Real Madrid, Monaco, and the Premier League teams Arsenal, Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur, and Crystal Palace.
Before traveling to South America to play for the Paraguayan team Olimpia Asuncion, he also made appearances for the Turkish teams Istanbul Basaksehir and Kayserispor.
Adebayor returned to his native Togo and last played for AC Semmasi before hanging his boots as a professional footballer.
Meanwhile, the former Togo international was present at Christian Atsu’s funeral and burial ceremony last Friday.
