adminLONDON. – Brighton star Enock Mwepu has been forced to retire from football aged 24 after the discovery of a potentially fatal hereditary heart condition.
The Zambian was taken ill during the recent international break, with subsequent tests identifying his condition and forcing him to hang up his boots.
Mwepu’s condition “manifests later in life” – and had not shown up in previous cardiac readings. Following medical tests the Premier League star was advised that playing on would leave him at risk of a cardiac arrest – forcing him to quit the game he loves.
Announcing his retirement, Mwepu wrote in a statement: “A boy from a small Zambian township called Chambishi has some news to share.
“He stood strong to follow his dreams 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 my boots because of the medical advice I have received.
“This is however not the end of my involvement with football, I plan to stay involved in some capacity.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone that supported me in my football journey, including my wife and family, my agent 12MAN, the Zambian FA, all my previous clubs, team-mates and coaches, and especially everyone at Brighton & Hove Albion.”
Mwepu arrived at the Amex from Red Bull Salzburg for a club record fee in 2021. – The Sun
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter