Kano Pillars captain Rabiu Ali has finally addressed the swirling rumours about his potential retirement, making it clear that stepping away from the game is not on his mindāfor now.
Speaking to Complete Sports after his team’s defeat to the Abia Warriors, the 44-year-old midfielder made it clear that despite his age, stepping away from the game isnāt on his radar yet, Footballrover reports.
Ali’s commitment to Kano Pillars stays strong
The veteran midfielder, widely regarded as the oldest active player in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), emphasised his continued passion for the game.
āRetirement? Thatās not something Iām considering right now,ā Ali revealed. āI still have much to give, both to the game and Kano Pillars. When the time is right, Iāll walk away, but until then, Iām here to contribute.ā
Ali also expressed his pride in the improvements seen in the NPFL this season, from better organisation to higher-quality play and officiating.
These changes, he said, have enhanced the competition, allowing teams to secure crucial away victoriesāif they can seize their chances.
Pillars captain reflects on season challenges
Reflecting on the defeat to the Umuahia Warriors, Ali admitted his disappointment but remained optimistic.
āOf course, losing isnāt easy, but thatās football. What matters is how we respond,ā he stated.
He pointed to the competitiveness of the NPFL, where teams can win on the road or lose at home, making every match unpredictable.
Despite Kano Pillars’ rough start to the seasonāwinning just once in their first four gamesāAli remains undeterred.
He believes that with the right adjustments, they can turn their campaign around, starting with their upcoming home match against Sunshine Stars.
Ali’s career has been nothing short of stellar, with three league titles and a domestic FA Cup under his belt.
For now, his sights are set on adding more success to his storied legacy with Kano Pillars.
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