After six years in MLS, Steve Zakuani is hanging up his cleats.
Steve Zakuani was drafted first overall in 2009 by the Seattle Sounders and quickly became a fan favorite. Heralded for his pace and workmanship, Zakuani played a pivotal role in the Sounders midfield.
Early on in the 2011 season, Zakuani was met by a rough challenge by Colorado Rapids midfielder, Brian Mullan. Steve Zakuani suffered a broken right leg while all Mullan received was a red card. Zakuani returned in the playoffs the following year, but was never quite the same.
After limited playing time in 2013, the Timbers plucked Zakuani from the re-entry draft, where he was reunited with his collegiate coach, Caleb Porter, for whom he played under at Akron. Zakuani tallied three assists in 17 games for the Timbers in 2014
A statement by Zakuani was posted to his website earlier that said, "When my career became more about the injections, MRIs, surgeries, doctors’ visits, painkillers and limited physical capabilities than the playing, enjoyment, love and passion for the game, I knew it was time to call it a day."
Zakuani finishes his shortened career with 104 appearances and 81 starts in the regular season and playoffs. He scored 18 goals and added 17 assists in 6,710 minutes of action. We at VAVEL USA would like to wish the best to Steve Zakuani in all of his future endeavors