Brighton star Enock Mwepu – one of the so-called Zambia golden generation alongside Rangers hero Fashion Sakala – has been forced to retire at the age of 24.
The tragic news comes after a hereditary heart defect was found by doctors meaning the Zambian national captain and Premier League midfielder has been forced to prematurely hang up his boots.
In a statement, Brighton explained that their club-record £20m signing from RB Salzburg was putting his life at risk by continuing to play football due to the issue.
The decision also comes after Enock Mwepu fell ill during the recent international break with a series of tests conducted by doctors concluding that the issue surrounds a hereditary heart condition which manifests itself later in life.
The midfielder has received the full support and backing of everyone at Brighton, including chairman Tony Bloom who paid tribute to the Zambia star.
“We are all absolutely devastated for Enock,” said Bloom.
“He and his family have had a traumatic few weeks and while we are just thankful he has come through that period, he has seen such a promising career cut short at such a young age.
“As a club we will give him all the love, help and support we possibly can to make a full recovery, and then as he decides on the next steps in his life.”
Enock Mwepu a Zambia teammate of Rangers star Fashion Sakala
Enock Mwepu joins Rangers star Fashion Sakala and Leicester City striker Patson Daka as being the leading trio in the so-called Zambia golden generation.
It is not only a massive blow to Enock Mwepu himself and the Brighton team and squad, but also to football in Zambia with the midfielder – nicknamed The Computer due to his in-game intelligence – widely regarded as the leading light of the trio.
Rangers also signed Fashion Sakala the same summer (2021) that Enock Mwepu earned his big move to the Premier League and our thoughts go out to the player and his family.
Meanwhile, Rangers have moved to sign up one Academy graduate for whom there are majorly high hopes at Ibrox.