According to a report by London Evening Standard on Thursday October 29, 2026, Former Arsenal striker Chuks Aneke has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 33, bringing his playing career to an end after spells across England and Belgium.

The former academy forward confirmed his decision through a post on his official Instagram account on Wednesday.

Aneke shared a video montage highlighting memorable moments from his career alongside a message thanking those who supported him. He expressed appreciation to his coaches, staff, teachers, friends, family and fans. He also acknowledged those who had not supported him, describing everything as part of an unforgettable journey.

The striker ended his message by expressing excitement about the next chapter of his life. According to Sports247, Aneke is interested in pursuing opportunities as a football scout and television analyst.

Aneke joined Arsenal's academy in 2001 when he was seven years old. He signed his first professional contract with the club in July 2010 and made his senior debut as a 90th-minute substitute against Shrewsbury Town in the League Cup in 2011.

Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger once compared him to Yaya Toure, praising his physical strength and technical ability. However, Aneke was released by the Gunners in June 2014 after spending 13 years at the club.

He subsequently enjoyed loan spells at Stevenage, Preston North End and Crewe Alexandra. He scored 24 goals in 82 appearances for Crewe and featured in their 2-0 victory over Southend United in the 2013 Football League Trophy final at Wembley.

Aneke later spent two seasons with Belgian side Zulte Waregem before joining MK Dons in August 2016. He scored 19 goals during the 2018–19 campaign as the club secured promotion from League Two.

The former striker joined Charlton Athletic in 2019 before moving to Birmingham City in 2021. He returned to Charlton in January 2022 and departed in 2025 after the club earned promotion to the Championship.

Aneke signed for Shrewsbury Town in September 2025, making 15 appearances without starting a match. The club announced in January that he had stepped away from his playing role by mutual consent.