Brighton midfielder Enock Mwepu has been forced to retire from football, NRTC can confirm.
Mwepu has been diagnosed with a hereditary heart condition that will make him unable to further his football career.
The Zambian reportedly fell ill while on a flight to team up with his Zambia team-mates during last month’s international break. He however returned to Brighton to undergo further cardiac tests after a period in a hospital in Mali.
Early on Monday morning, a statement by Brighton revealed that Mwepu would have a very high risk of suffering a “fatal cardiac arrest” if he continues to be involved in competitive action, hence his need to retire from football.
Announcing his retirement, Mwepu disclosed he is still planning to remain in football in some capacity even as he retires.
ALSO READ: EPL matchday 10: Arsenal top, Ronaldo milestone as City, Newcastle record massive wins
“A small boy from a Zambian township called Chambishi has some news to share,” the midfielder wrote. “He stood strong to follow his dream of playing football at the highest level and by the grace of God he lived his dream by reaching the Premier League.
“Some dreams however come to an end, so it is with sadness that I announce the need to hang up by boots because of the medical advice I have received. This is not the end of my involvement in football, I plan to stay involved in some capacity.”
The statement
“We are all absolutely devastated for Enock,” said Brighton chairman Tony Bloom. “He and his family have had a traumatic few weeks and while we are just thankful he has come through that period, he has seen such a promising career cut short at such a young age.
“As a club we will give him all the love, help and support we possibly can to make a full recovery, and then as he decides on the next steps in his life.”
The 24-year-old played in all six of Brighton’s league matches this season before the September international break. Since signing from Salzburg in July 2021, he has featured 27 times for the club.
He also scored six goals in 23 appearances for the Zambian national team, also known as Chipolopolo. Mwepu will be sorely missed just as he retires from football.
“I am so sorry for Enock,” Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi said. “Before I arrived I looked at all the squad, and he was a player I was so excited and looking forward to working with. We will do everything we can to help him.”
Discover more from News Round The Clock
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
