Former Arsenal academy player Chuks Aneke has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 33. The Newham-born striker, who never made a first-team appearance for the Gunners, took a thinly-veiled jab at those who did not support him during his career.
Career Journey
Aneke broke through Arsenal's youth academy in 2010 but spent his time there on loan at Stevenage, Preston North End and Crewe Alexandra before being released in 2014 when his contract expired. He then moved to Belgian club Zulte Waregem, returning to England two years later to join MK Dons.
After two spells with Charlton Athletic and a stint at Birmingham City, Aneke signed for Shrewsbury Town last summer. He scored just one goal in 15 appearances for the club before deciding to retire.
Retirement Statement
In a statement shared on social media, Aneke said: "I'd like to officially announce my retirement from professional football. Also 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's didn't."
He added: "It was all part of an amazing journey and I wouldn't change it. Looking forward to the second-half. God bless."
Well Wishes From Former Clubs
Several of Aneke's former teams and team-mates wished him well. Crewe wrote: "What a career, Chuks. All the best for everything you have planned." Chuba Akpom said: "An inspiration from early," while Sheyi Omatayo added: "One of the best to do it," and Miles Leaburn wrote: "What a guy man. Good luck in the next chapter."
Shrewsbury Town also commented: "Congratulations on a fantastic career, Chuks. All the best for what's next!"
New Role
Aneke will not be going far as he moves into scouting and recruitment analysis with Shrewsbury. According to BBC Shropshire, he started the role in January, with the broadcaster reporting that Michael Appleton had praised his talent for spotting promising players.
Shrewsbury confirmed in a statement that Aneke had stepped away from his playing duties by mutual consent, saying: "Chuks has made the decision to step away from his playing role with the club by mutual consent. We wish Chuks every success in his new endeavours."
