Super Eagles: Kelechi Iheanacho’s ‘best friend’ announces retirement from his football career

Super Eagles attacker Kelechi Iheanacho has seen one of his closest football friends, Kasper Schmiechel, bow out of his professional career, Afrik Foot reports.

Across Celtic and Leicester City, the duo played 154 games together, winning the English FA Cup, Community Shield, the Scottish Premiership title and the Gas Men’s League Cup together.

When Iheanacho joined Celtic last summer under former Leicester City coach Brendan Rodgers, he spoke about his previous relationship with Schmeichel during their time at the King Power Stadium.

“When I was at Leicester, I used to sit next to Kasper in the changing room, so I’ll be happy to see him again,” the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup winner told Celtic TV.

“It’s been a long time, so I’m looking forward to seeing him again.”

Kasper Schmeichel: Kelechi Iheanacho’s close friend retires from football

Set to become a free agent this summer, Kasper Schmeichel decided it was time to pull the curtains on his career after battling a prolonged shoulder injury.

Speaking in an emotional interview with TV 2 Sport in Parken, Copenhagen, the 39-year-old shot-stopper revealed the heartbreaking reality of his situation.

“When my contract expires with Celtic in June, I will stop my active football career,” Schmeichel confirmed.

“It’s a decision that has been made for me. I have consulted with various surgeons and experts regarding my shoulder, and they have told me that I should not expect to return to play top football.

“I’ve given it a lot of thought, but I believe that now is the right time.

BREAKING: Kasper Schmeichel announces his retirement from football 🚨 pic.twitter.com/TOm4fkZgQ6

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) May 27, 2026

“I think everyone dreams of saying goodbye on the field, but you don’t always get what you wan.

“I’ve had so much else along the way, so football doesn’t owe me anything. I’ve had so many opportunities, so many experiences.

“What stands out most are the friendships and connections I’ve made. The moments I’ve shared with them – for better or worse,” the one-time English Premier League winner concluded.

Despite being out of action since February, he’s been involved in the dressing room with his Celtic teammates and was seen in a close embrace with Kelechi Iheanacho after the Nigerian striker came off the bench to score in the League Cup final against Dunfermline Athletic.

Schmeichel began his career at Manchester City, the final club his father, Peter, played for. He was also able to accrue 120 caps for Denmark, including playing at the 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cup tournaments, while reaching the semi-final of EURO 2020.