### Akpembe Retires Injured After Week-Long Battle With COVID-19
In a shocking turn of events, Kenyan football legend and former international player Michael Akpembe has announced his retirement due to severe injuries sustained during a prolonged battle with the coronavirus.
The 46-year-old former striker, who made his mark in the sport with spells at clubs like Manchester United and Chelsea, revealed on social media that he had been fighting the virus for over a week before seeking medical attention.
The announcement came as a shock to many fans and fellow players alike, who were hoping to see Akpembe continue his illustrious career. His retirement comes after a long and successful career that spanned two decades, during which he played for several major European clubs and earned numerous accolades.
Akpembe's decision to retire is likely due to the severity of his injuries, which included a respiratory infection and multiple fractures. He was hospitalized for several weeks and underwent extensive rehabilitation before being allowed to return to training.
Despite his injury, Akpembe expressed gratitude for his fans and colleagues who supported him throughout his career. He also praised the efforts of healthcare workers in Kenya and around the world who have worked tirelessly to combat the pandemic.
As Akpembe prepares to transition into a new chapter of his life, his legacy as one of the greatest strikers in African football will live on. Fans and enthusiasts alike will remember him as a dedicated player who gave everything he had on the field and off it.