Jonathan Mensah announces retirement from professional football

The former Ghana international defender made 70 appearances for the Black Stars, including competing at two World Cup, in South Africa in 2010 and the 2014 tournament in Brazil.

He was also part of the team that claimed a historic FIFA U-20 World Cup victory in 2009 and played in several editions of the Africa Cup of Nations.

Mensah's former clubs include Ashanti Gold, Free State Stars, Udinese, Granada, Evian Thonon Gaillard, Anzhi Makhachkala, Columbus Crew, San Jose Earthquakes and New England Revolution.

"Football taught me discipline, resilience, humility, leadership, and the importance of being a great teammate," read part of a statement from Mensah.

"It taught me that success is not measured only by trophies, appearances, or individual achievement, but by the lives you touch and the legacy you leave behind.

"I am proud of the career I have had, but I am even prouder of the person this beautiful game has helped me become.

“Today, I close a chapter with a heart full of gratitude. Although my playing career is coming to an end, my relationship with football will never stop," he wrote.