Another Uganda Cranes player Azira Retires

Uganda Cranes midfielder Mike Azira on Wednesday evening announced his decision to retire from the national team.

The 33-year-old professional player joins a growing list of Cranes players who have retired in the past week including former team captain Denis Masinde Onyango and assistant Captain Hassan Wasswa Mawanda.

Azira in a letter addressed to the President of the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA), Moses Hassim Magogo dated 14th April 2021, said he has enjoyed working with the National team pointing out the two African Cup Nations as his best moments with the Cranes.

“I have enjoyed with the Federation and playing for the Uganda National Team. Playing in two Africa Cup Nations was one of the best moments with the Cranes, these memories will always stay with me and will be cherished always,” reads part of the letter. Azira currently features for New Mexico United FC which plays in the USL Championship, the second division of American soccer.

The development comes after FUFA President recently said that the Federation is planning to build a new team using young players.

FUFA President Magogo has also thanked Azira for his service to the national team. “Mike has been the most professional footballer I have worked with. Dedicated to instructions, rules, and helping young players on the on and off the field etiquette of a professional footballer. I pray your club career continues and those coaching badges get done so that you can be retained by the game after,” said Magogo.