Ghana’s World Cup-winning defender Daniel Opare has officially announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 35, bringing an end to a remarkable career that took him across Europe and earned him recognition on the international stage.
The former FC Porto, Real Madrid Castilla, and Beşiktaş right-back enjoyed a career spanning over a decade, featuring for clubs in Spain, Portugal, Turkey, Germany, Belgium and beyond.
Opare rose to prominence as part of Ghana’s historic 2009 FIFA U20 World Cup-winning squad, the first African team to lift the title. He later represented the Black Stars at senior level, earning 20 caps, and featuring in the 2008 and 2012 Africa Cup of Nations as well as the 2014 FIFA World Cup.
In a heartfelt statement announcing his decision, Opare expressed profound gratitude for his journey:
“OFFICIALLY RETIRED!! A great day to celebrate. I couldn’t be happier for what the LORD has done for me throughout these years. From where I started, it is only HIM who can raise a nobody like me to a position of recognition and fulfilment. I’m grateful—to YOU belongs all the glory.”
He extended appreciation to his family, friends and loved ones for their unwavering support:
“Thank you for your prayers, your kindness, and for being there in difficult moments. Your support carried me through.”
Opare also paid tribute to the clubs he represented and their supporters:
“Thank you to all the clubs and fans for trusting me in good and bad times. Even when injuries were too much and I felt like giving up, your encouragement kept me going. I never cheated any club out of commitment or loyalty. I wore every jersey with pride and no regrets.”
The defender concluded with a warm farewell:
“See you soon, and God bless you all. — Daniel Opare”
Opare has been without a club since parting ways with RFC Seraing in Belgium in 2023, and now officially brings the curtain down on a career defined by resilience, faith, and dedication.
