Nicolai Boilesen, the 33-year-old FC Copenhagen defender, has announced his retirement from professional football at the end of the current season. The decision comes as a result of numerous significant injuries that have plagued his career, rendering his legs unable to continue.

Boilesen expressed mixed emotions about ending his career, acknowledging pride in his achievements while also lamenting the impact of injuries that prevented him from playing even more matches. He admitted that saying goodbye to the sport he loves is difficult but feels fortunate for the opportunities he has had.

This season has been particularly challenging for Boilesen, as a knee injury has kept him off the field entirely. He has not played a single minute this season.

Looking back, Boilesen’s career began with Brøndby, FCK’s main rival, where his talent led to a move to Ajax in Amsterdam as a youth player. He experienced an international breakthrough with Ajax and debuted with the national team in 2011. Although initially appearing to be a long-term fixture for Denmark, injuries limited him to just 22 national team appearances.

In 2016, Boilesen returned to FCK after his time abroad. During his injury-free periods, he became a prominent figure for the club, playing a total of 187 games.