‘Mourinho shot’ prospect retires at age 26… Achilles tendon injury is crucial
The promising youngster, who had attracted the attention of coach Jose Mourinho, took off his soccer boots at an early age without developing his talent.
Izzy Brown announced his retirement as a football player on his 7th (Korean time) via his social media (SNS). He was born in 1997 and had to leave the ground at the age of 26. Brown posted a long article on social media with the title ‘Dear football’안전놀이터.
Brown was once a promising prospect. He made his English Premier League (EPL) debut at the age of 16 for West Bromwich Albion. Brown, who left a strong impression, immediately wore a Chelsea uniform and caught Mourinho’s eye and made his first team debut.
But after that, he couldn’t spread his wings. He went on loan for playing time, but adaptation problems and frequent injuries prevented him from playing well. He left the club when his contract with Chelsea expired at the end of the 2020-2021 season and moved to Preston North End, but an Achilles tendon injury forced him to retire at an early age.
The Achilles tendon injury that hastened his retirement was serious. Two months after his first surgery, it cut off again and he had to have another operation. There was also a problem with his nervous system. He started losing muscle in his legs and eventually gave up football after consulting doctors.
Brown, who had an interview with Britain’s ‘The Athletic’, said, “I’ve been trying to process my emotions. It’s been very difficult,” and said, “Today and tomorrow will be the hardest days of my life.”
Numerous soccer players came to Brown’s social media to offer condolences. Dominic Solanke, who played for Chelsea together, left a comment of support, saying, “It was a pleasure playing the ground with you. There are many memories to last forever. I’m sure the next chapter will be really big.” In addition, former colleagues such as Tammy Abraham (AS Roma), Fikayo Tomori (AC Milan), and Calvin Phillips (Manchester City) cheered in comments.