Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Carl Ikeme has disclosed that missing the 2018 FIFA World Cup due to a leukemia diagnosis remains his biggest career regret.
Recall that Ikeme was diagnosed with acute leukemia in July 2017 during pre-season training with Wolverhampton Wanderers.
He subsequently underwent treatment and announced his retirement from professional football in 2018 after doctors confirmed that he was in complete remission.
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His illness meant he missed Nigeria’s campaign at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where the Super Eagles were eliminated in the group stage.
Reflecting on his international career, Ikeme, in a chat with Brila FM, said his inability to represent Nigeria at major tournaments is the one aspect of his football journey he wishes could have been different.
Ikeme Opens Up on Biggest Career Regret
“My regret in my football career is not representing Nigeria more and not going to major competitions with the team,” Ikeme said.
“I should have been at the World Cup, unfortunately we know why I could not make it.
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“It has always been that thing in me. I have no regrets about football but that is the only thing that burns me.”
His absence also left the Super Eagles searching for a dependable first-choice goalkeeper for several years before Stanley Nwabali established himself as the team’s No. 1.
Ikeme had made 10 appearances for Nigeria between 2015 and 2017. Those matches included key Africa Cup of Nations and FIFA World Cup qualifiers as the Super Eagles rebuilt under different coaches after Enyeama’s departure.
