DR Congo star Gaël Kakuta calls time on football career

DR Congo international Gael Kakuta has announced his retirement from professional football, bringing the curtain down on a distinguished career that spanned nearly two decades across some of Europe’s top leagues.

The 35-year-old attacking midfielder has decided to hang up his boots following DR Congo’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking the end of a journey that saw him establish himself as one of his country’s most technically gifted footballers.

Kakuta leaves the game with a wealth of experience, having represented several prominent clubs throughout his career. A product of Chelsea’s renowned academy, he was once regarded as one of the brightest young talents in European football before embarking on a career that took him across England, Spain, Italy, France and Greece.

During his professional journey, Kakuta featured for Chelsea, Fulham, Lazio, Amiens, Lens, Rayo Vallecano, Sevilla, AEL Larissa and several other clubs, earning widespread admiration for his creativity, dribbling ability and exceptional vision.

Known for his elegant style of play, the Congolese playmaker possessed the technical quality to unlock stubborn defences with incisive passes while also contributing with crucial goals. His versatility allowed him to operate as an attacking midfielder, winger or second striker, making him a valuable asset wherever he played.

On the international stage, Kakuta proudly represented the Democratic Republic of the Congo, earning 31 caps and scoring five goals for the Leopards. He became an influential figure within the national team, inspiring teammates with his experience and consistently delivering moments of quality in the final third.

His contributions extended beyond statistics, as he played a significant role in raising the profile of Congolese football and serving as a role model for a new generation of players aspiring to compete at the highest level.

The decision to retire comes shortly after DR Congo’s World Cup campaign came to an end, closing a memorable chapter in Kakuta’s career on the international stage. While the tournament did not conclude as he had hoped, it provided a fitting final appearance for a player who gave years of dedicated service to his country.

As he steps away from professional football, Kakuta leaves behind a legacy built on elegance, creativity and professionalism. His career, which began with immense promise at Chelsea and evolved through successful spells across Europe, will be remembered as one marked by resilience, adaptability and undeniable talent.

For supporters of the Leopards and the many clubs he represented, Gaël Kakuta will be remembered as one of the finest playmakers of his generation, a footballer whose vision and technical brilliance brought joy to fans throughout an outstanding career.