Uganda Cranes captain Emmanuel Arnold Okwi has officially announced his retirement from international football at the age of 32.
In a statement shared on his social media platforms, Okwi expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to represent Uganda on the international stage, describing it as a dream come true.
He also reflected on the immense pride he felt wearing the national team jersey, especially as captain.
“Representing my country on the international stage has been a fulfilling dream that came true. Donning the Uganda Cranes shirt always left a special feeling, and captaining our team was an absolute privilege and honour,” he wrote.
Okwi explained that with the emergence of young talent in Ugandan football, he feels it is the right time to step aside and allow the next generation to take center stage.
“An exciting new era for Ugandan football is coming up, with East Africa hosting the CHAN later this August and subsequently the AFCON 2027, with many young footballers coming up. That is why, having cherished all those memories, I believe it is time for me to bow out and pave the way for our talented young football players,” he stated.
He extended his appreciation to the fans, coaches, family, and the leadership of FUFA for their unwavering support throughout his career.
“I will always hold close to my heart the love shown to me by all the fans, and my special thanks go to my family, Coach Bobby Williamson who handed me a debut, all the successive coaches thereafter with whom we created memories together through thick and thin, and of course the leadership at the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA),” he added.
Since making his debut in 2009, Okwi has earned 95 caps for Uganda, scoring 28 goals. He currently plays for AS Kigali in Rwanda.
