Peniel Mlapa hangs up his football shoes at 35, ends career

Peniel Mlapa, the 35‑year‑old former Bundesliga striker, announced his retirement from professional football on social media, declaring that he is hanging up his football shoes and nailing his career to the end after a journey that began in Munich’s youth ranks and spanned clubs across Europe and Asia.

From Munich youth to professional debut

Mlapa arrived in Germany as a child and began his football education at FC Unterföhring. He then moved to the youth academy of TSV 1860 Munich, where he developed as a forward. At the Lions, his early promise started to take shape.

In 2009, the young attacker made the jump to professional football with 1860 Munich, commonly known as the Lions. His debut marked the transition from youth football to the senior ranks of German competition.

Later, Mlapa transferred to TSG Hoffenheim, where he continued to feature as an attacker in the Bundesliga. He subsequently signed for Borussia Mönchengladbach, adding further top‑flight experience.

Across his German career, Mlapa accumulated 79 Bundesliga matches and scored eight goals. He also turned out for 1. FC Nürnberg, VfL Bochum and Dynamo Dresden in the domestic leagues. These stints broadened his exposure beyond the top tier.

Global odyssey after German years

After leaving Germany, the striker joined Dutch side VVV‑Venlo, beginning his first overseas adventure. He later played in the United Arab Emirates, South Korea and Thailand, extending his career across three continents. Each move added a new chapter to his international résumé.

The most recent chapter saw Mlapa under contract with the Lamphun Warriors. Since the beginning of July 2026 he has been listed as a free agent. With no club affiliation, he chose to bring his playing days to a close.

In a personal post on social media, the 35‑year‑old reflected on his long football career, from Munich’s youth fields to his global stations. The farewell highlighted his decision to hang up his football shoes and nail his career to the end.