Anthony Nwakaeme is set to bring his playing career to an end at Trabzonspor, with the Turkish club planning to retain the Nigerian forward in an off-field capacity once the season concludes.
The 36-year-old’s contract expires at the end of the current campaign, but Trabzonspor have already moved to secure his long-term future at the club.
According to Turkish outlet Sabah, the Super Lig side have proposed a position for Nwakaeme on their scouting committee, a move aimed at keeping his experience and deep knowledge of the club within its technical structure. He is expected to formally begin his new duties after the season.
Anthony Nwakeme. Photo Credit: AFP
Nwakaeme has also reportedly turned down interest from clubs in the United Arab Emirates, choosing instead to finish his career in Trabzon.
Further confirmation came on Tuesday, with Turkish outlet NTV Spor reporting that Nwakaeme intends to retire at the end of the campaign and transition immediately into a staff role, with options within the club’s coaching or technical setup already discussed.
Photo Credit: Imago
Nwakaeme remains a respected figure within the squad under head coach Fatih Tekke, who has increasingly relied on younger players this season. His leadership and influence off the pitch continue to be valued by the club’s hierarchy.
Nwakaeme cemented his status as a Trabzonspor great during the club’s historic 2021–22 Super Lig title-winning season. He played a central role in that success, scoring 13 goals and providing 10 assists in 30 league matches as Trabzonspor claimed their first league title in nearly 40 years.
Nwakeme celebrating the Turkish Super lig title. Photo Credit: Imago
After the title triumph, Nwakaeme left Turkey for Saudi Arabian side Al-Fayha, where he spent two seasons before returning to Trabzonspor in 2024.
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He has a statue erected in his honour near the club’s stadium as a lasting tribute to his impact and place among the most influential players in Trabzonspor’s modern history.
This season, Nwakaeme has made 12 appearances, scoring twice. Overall, he has played 177 matches for Trabzonspor, registering 49 goals and 46 assists across his two spells at the club.
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At international level, Nwakaeme made his debut for Nigeria in 2017, featuring during the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Algeria in Constantine.
