Marc Albrighton, Wilfred Ndidi, and Kelechi Iheanacho also praised Shinji Okazaki for his 20-year career following his final professional football appearance on Friday.
Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez were among the Leicester City legends to bid farewell to Shinji Okazaki as he played his final match in professional football.
The Japan international ended his career on Friday night with a game for Sint-Truiden against City’s sister club OH Leuven in the Belgian top flight. Substituted after 50 minutes, Okazaki received a guard of honour from both teams as he left the pitch.
Before the match, his 586th senior club appearance, video messages from former teammates and colleagues played. Alongside Vardy and Mahrez, messages came from fellow Premier League winners Marc Albrighton, long-time City teammates Wilfred Ndidi and Kelechi Iheanacho, and Japan internationals Shinji Kagawa, Keisuke Honda, and Yuta Nagatomo, all congratulating Okazaki on his 20-year career. At 38, Okazaki was renowned for his relentless pressing and playmaking, which allowed Vardy and Mahrez to excel during City’s title-winning campaign. Here’s what they had to say about their former teammate:
Jamie Vardy: “Shinji, congrats on an absolutely unbelievable career. I miss you! We’ve always kept in touch, but I can’t wait to see you again soon. Much love.”
Riyad Mahrez: “Shinji, I hope you are good, my friend. I heard your career has come to an end. You were an amazing player and an incredible teammate—very professional and very funny as well. All the memories we shared and the league we won wouldn’t have been possible without you. It’s been a pleasure, my friend.”
Wilfred Ndidi: “Yes, Shinji! Congratulations on your retirement. I wish you the best on your next journey. Enjoy yourself, my brother! Take care.”
Marc Albrighton: “Shinji! How are you doing, mate? Congratulations on an incredible career. You’ve had a great time in the game. Off the pitch, we’ve had some amazing times as well, with a lot of good nights and funny moments. I wish you all the best for the future. Good luck with whatever you do next.”
Kelechi Iheanacho: “Hello Shinji, it’s your friend Kel. You’ve done great work for the club. I’m here to wish you all the best in the future. Enjoy, Shinji!”