Nigerian Defender Gbenga Arokoyo retires from international football

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

After a notable career spanning various clubs including Umea FC, Kalmar FF, Portland Timbers, Gaziantepspor, and Mjällby AIF, Gbenga Arokoyo has announced his retirement from international football.

In a heartfelt statement on his Instagram account, the 31-year-old expressed his deep appreciation for the journey that began in the streets of Kabba, Nigeria, and culminated in representing his country on the global stage.

“Today marks the end of an incredible journey, a journey that began on the dusty streets of Kabba, where a young boy dreamt of playing football amidst the struggles of everyday life. I am overwhelmed with emotions, gratitude, and memories that will forever be etched in my heart,” the statement read.

“I want to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has been a part of my footballing odyssey. To those who watched me kick an Orange Fruit Ball on the streets without boots or jerseys, to those who witnessed my relentless pursuit of this dream despite the hardships, thank you. Your belief in me, even when I doubted myself, propelled me forward.

“My journey took me from the streets of Kabba Kogi State Nigeria to Kwara Football Academy, where I honed my skills and dreamed of donning the Green and White jersey of Nigeria. The echoes of the national anthem reverberated in my mind, a constant reminder of my ultimate goal. The call to represent my country remains one of the most profound moments of my life. It was a culmination of years of dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering belief in my abilities.

“I am indebted to every club that entrusted me with their colors, from Mjällby AIF to Gaziantepspor, from Portland Timbers to Kalmar FF and Umea FC. Each jersey I wore represented not just a team, but a family, a community, and cherished memories that will last a lifetime.”

Reflecting on his footballing odyssey, Arokoyo expressed gratitude to all who supported him along the way, from his humble beginnings to the pinnacle of his career. He credited his family, former teams, and fans for their unwavering support and belief in his abilities, acknowledging the profound impact they had on his success.

“I cannot overlook the steadfast support of my friends and family, especially my ever-relentless Mother, whose prayers and guidance steered me through the darkest of times. To my beautiful wife and our two incredible boys, your love and unwavering support have been my pillars of strength,” he continued.

“My journey was not without its challenges. I battled through injuries, endured two ruptured Achilles tendons, and underwent surgeries that tested my resolve. Yet, through it all, I emerged stronger, more determined, and with an unshakeable faith in God.”

With his playing days behind him, Arokoyo looks forward to a new chapter in coaching, having completed his UEFA A license in 2023. He aims to inspire the next generation of footballers and give back to the sport that has been his passion and lifeblood as he bids farewell to the pitch.

“Last year, I embarked on a new chapter, completing the UEFA A coaching course, paving the way for my transition from player to mentor. Football has been my lifeblood, my passion, and now, I am ready to give back, to inspire the next generation of footballers,” he added.

“As I hang up my boots, I carry with me a lifetime of memories, lessons, and an unquenchable thirst for the beautiful game. Thank you, from the depths of my heart, for being a part of this remarkable journey.
The Best is yet to come.”

Arokoyo was signed by Kwara United from Kwara Football Academy in 2010. During his time at the club, he was selected for the Nigeria national under-20 football team.

In early 2012 a delegation from Swedish club Mjällby AIF travelled to see him on location in Nigeria and in February they officially signed him.

In April 2013 an Allsvenskan game against Djurgårdens IF was suspended after Arokoyo got hit by a pear thrown by a Djurgården supporter.

On 2 August 2016, Portland Timbers of Major League Soccer announced that they had signed Arokoyo. He played in one game for the Timbers and one game for their second team, Portland Timbers 2, in 2016. During training before the 2017 season, he suffered an Achilles tendon tear, missing the subsequent season.

On 13 December 2017, Arokoyo was traded along with Darlington Nagbe to Atlanta United FC.

On 15 February 2021, Arokoyo signed with Umeå FC in the Swedish third-tier Ettan, which was his last club before retirement.