Sunshine Stars’ long-serving captain and former Nigeria junior international, Sunday Abe, has announced his retirement from professional football after an 18-year career.
The 33-year-old defender revealed his decision on Wednesday in Akure, Ondo State, marking the end of an illustrious journey in the sport.
Abe, who spent the majority of his career with Sunshine Stars FC, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead his boyhood club. “After thoughtful consideration, I’m announcing my immediate retirement from professional football after about two decades of active service as a player,” Abe stated.
“I feel incredibly thankful for the opportunity to have played most of my career as captain of Sunshine Stars FC of Akure.”
In addition to his time with Sunshine Stars, Abe had a brief stint with Teuta Durres FC in Albania and represented Nigeria at various youth levels.
He was part of the Golden Eaglets squad that participated in the U-17 AFCON and World Cup qualifiers in 2007, as well as the Flying Eagles team that competed in the 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Egypt.
Abe also played for the home-based Super Eagles under the late coach Shuaibu Amodu in 2010.
Named captain of Sunshine Stars in 2013, Abe played 17 seasons in the Nigeria Premier Football League, with his final appearance being a crucial 1-0 away win over Doma United on June 19, 2023.
Having earned two coaching certificates, Abe is preparing for a continued involvement in football, focusing on coaching and administrative roles.
