Aaron Ramsey (Image: PA Images / Alamy)
Last Updated: 2 minutes ago
Wales captain Aaron Ramsey has confirmed his retirement from professional football with immediate effect. The 35-year-old midfielder, who has been without a club since departing Mexican side Pumas UNAM last year, is expected to move into coaching.
Ramsey announced the decision on social media, paying tribute to his country, his clubs, and his family.
“This has not been an easy decision to make. After a lot of consideration, I have decided to retire from football,” he wrote.
“Firstly, I want to start with Wales. It has been my privilege to wear the Welsh shirt and experience so many incredible moments in it. It would not have been possible without the incredible input of all the managers I have played under and all the staff who have helped me in many ways.
“To the Red Wall. You have been there through thick and thin! You have been there through the highs and lows, and you have been an essential and indispensable part of our success. I can’t thank you enough. We’ve been through everything together and it’s been an honour to represent you. Diolch.
“Secondly, thank you to all the clubs I’ve been lucky enough to play for. Thank you to all the managers and staff that have helped me be able to live my dream and play at the highest level.
“And a huge thank you to my wife and children and all my family. Without you by my side throughout, none of this would have been possible.”
Wales legacy
Ramsey retires as one of his country’s greatest ever players, earning 86 caps and scoring 21 goals for Wales. He represented his nation at three major tournaments – playing a central role in the unforgettable run to the Euro 2016 semi-finals, where his performances earned him a place in Uefa’s team of the tournament.
He went on to feature at Euro 2020 before helping Wales reach the 2022 World Cup – their first appearance in the finals of that competition in 64 years.
Club career
Ramsey began his journey at boyhood club Cardiff City before joining Arsenal in 2008. Across 11 seasons with the Gunners he won three FA Cups, netting the winning goal in two of those finals.
Spells at Juventus and Nice followed, along with a loan move to Rangers where he helped the club reach the 2022 Europa League final – though he missed a penalty in the shootout.
He later returned to Cardiff, taking on a brief role as interim head coach towards the end of last season. His move to Pumas had been motivated by a desire to maintain fitness ahead of a potential Wales World Cup qualification campaign this summer, but having been unable to secure a new club since leaving Mexico, Ramsey has opted to step away from the game.
