Ghanaian defender Daniel Opare has officially retired from professional football, bringing an end the chapter on a career that spanned continents and top leagues.
The 35-year-old shared his gratitude and memories in a heartfelt Instagram post:
“OFFICIALLY RETIRED!! A great day to celebrate, i couldn’t be more happier for what the LORD has done for me throughout these years. From where i started, is only HIM that can rise a nobody like me to a position of recognition and fulfilment so I’m grateful LORD JESUS, TO YOU BELONGS ALL THE GLORY, THANK YOU. Secondly i want to thank my beloved family, friends and loved ones for their prayers and support which carried me through. Thank you all for being there in difficult times and whenever i called, y’all never hesitated to show your unwavering love and kindness towards me. Thirdly i want to use this opportunity to thank all the clubs and their amazing fans for their support and trust in good and bad times which helped me grow and became a better player. At times when injuries become too much unfortunately and i thought about giving up, y’all kept encouraging and believing in me that motivated me to play with my heart and i never cheated any club out of my commitment, dedication and loyalty. I wore every jersey with pride, respect and no regrets. See you soon and God bless vou all DANIEL OPARE.”
Opare represented Ghana’s senior national team 19 times, playing at major tournaments and World Cup qualifiers. He also made 2 appearances for the U-20 and 7 appearances for the U-17.
At club level, he featured for clubs in Belgium, Spain, Germany, Turkey, France, and more, including Standard Liege, Real Madrid Castilla, Augsburg, Besiktas, Lens, Antwerp, and RFC Seraing.
