Former Ajax Skipper and Danish International Nicolai Boilesen Declares Retirement

FC Copenhagen’s defender Nicolai Boilesen, aged 33, has officially announced his retirement from professional football.

Beginning his career at Brøndby in 2010, Boilesen made his professional debut with the Eredivisie giants Ajax in 2011, accumulating a total of 73 appearances for the Amsterdam club. Ahead of the 2014/15 season, manager Frank de Boer appointed Boilesen as the third captain, and he proudly donned the armband throughout that campaign.

However, during the 2015/16 season, Boilesen found himself sidelined, with de Boer opting not to include him in the squad. The following summer, he departed the club for FC Copenhagen, where he would remain for the next nine years, featuring in 187 matches.

“Joining FC Copenhagen has been the best decision I’ve ever made, and I’ve savoured every moment,” Boilesen stated on FC Copenhagen’s official website. “I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for these nine years, through the ups and downs. A massive thank you to the fans who have stood by me, and I will always cherish the wonderful moments shared with you. Your support during my injury spells has meant the world to me.”

Challenging Injury Setbacks

Throughout his career, Boilesen has faced numerous injury challenges, starting with a setback during his early Ajax days that kept him out for 517 days. Over the years, the versatile defender struggled with various injuries, which ultimately cost him 336 matches throughout his 14-year playing career.

“Simultaneously, I must extend my gratitude to many others,” he added. “Thanks to everyone at Parken and at Number 10 who helped ensure everything ran smoothly on a daily basis.”

“It feels incredibly special to announce my retirement. I’m proud of all that I’ve achieved through football, but I must admit, I often wonder how much more I could have played without the injuries, which ultimately influenced my decision to step away.”

The 22-time Danish international, who played in the round of 16 at EURO 2020 against Wales, concluded his career with FC Copenhagen in a match against Galatasaray on December 12, 2023, where his side secured a 1-0 victory at Parken.

Boilesen, finishing his career with a total of 283 professional appearances, wrapped up his farewell message to fans with these poignant words: “Saying goodbye to something I’ve cherished every single day is painful. Yet, I feel incredibly fortunate to have had this extraordinary opportunity.”