Mwepu forced to retire from football

Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Enock Mwepu has been forced to retire from football following the diagnosis of a hereditary heart condition.

The 24-year-old, who joined Brighton from RB Salzburg in 2021, has been informed that to continue playing competitive sport would put him at an extremely high risk of suffering a potentially fatal cardiac event.

Mwepu was taken ill while on a flight to join up with the Zambian national team during the international break, and, after returning to Brighton, learned of his condition during subsequent medical checks.

"We are all absolutely devastated for Enock," club chairman Tony Bloom told the club's official website. "He and his family have had a traumatic few weeks and while we are just thankful he has come through that period, he has seen such a promising career cut short at such a young age.

"As a club we will give him all the love, help and support we possibly can to make a full recovery, and then as he decides on the next steps in his life."

"It is a terrible blow for Enock," said Brighton's Head of Medicine and Performance, Adam Brett. "But he has to put his health and his family first and this is the right choice, however difficult it is to quit the game he loves."

"We will be helping him make sure the condition is managed with the appropriate treatment for him to otherwise live a long and healthy life."

Mwepu scored two goals, against Liverpool and Arsenal last season, and provided five assists in 24 Premier League appearances for Brighton.

The Premier League sends its best wishes to Enock for the future after this challenging news.