Former Arsenal star Aaron Ramsey announces retirement from football

Credit: Getty Images

Former Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 35, bringing an end to a distinguished career that spanned nearly two decades.

The Wales captain, who had been without a club since leaving Mexican side Pumas UNAM last year, confirmed his decision on social media, stating he would now pursue a career in coaching.

Arsenal Legacy

Ramsey enjoyed the most successful period of his club career during his 11-year stint with Arsenal from 2008 to 2019. The skilful playmaker became a Gunners legend, winning three FA Cups and memorably scoring the winning goals in both the 2014 and 2017 finals.

His time in north London saw him develop from a promising teenager, signed from Cardiff City for £5 million, into one of the Premier League’s most dangerous box-to-box midfielders. Despite suffering a horrific leg break in 2010, Ramsey showed remarkable resilience to return stronger and become a key figure under Arsène Wenger.

International Excellence

Ramsey’s international career proved equally remarkable, retiring as one of Wales’ greatest ever players with 21 goals in 86 appearances. He captained his country through their golden generation, playing a pivotal role in Wales’ historic run to the Euro 2016 semi-finals, where he earned a place in UEFA’s team of the tournament.

The midfielder also represented Wales at Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar – the nation’s first World Cup appearance in 64 years.

Later Career

After leaving Arsenal on a free transfer, Ramsey joined Juventus before spells at Nice and a return to boyhood club Cardiff City. He briefly served as interim head coach at Cardiff before his move to Pumas UNAM, hoping to maintain his fitness for potential World Cup qualification with Wales.

In his retirement announcement, Ramsey expressed gratitude to all who supported his journey. “This has not been an easy decision to make,” he wrote. “After a lot of consideration, I have decided to retire from football.”

Ramsey thanked Wales supporters – the Red Wall – for their unwavering support and acknowledged the managers, staff, and family members who helped him achieve his dreams. The former Gunner now looks ahead to the next chapter of his career in coaching.