Welsh icon and former Arsenal star Aaron Ramsey has confirmed his retirement from professional football. The midfielder played a key role in Wales’ remarkable run to the Euro 2016 semi-finals, capping off an illustrious career that earned him a place in UEFA’s Team of the Tournament.
He spent over 10 years with the Gunners and also scored the winning goal in both FA Cup finals against Arsenal. The 35-year-old has not been with the club since leaving Mexican side Pumas in December and has not featured for the club since September. The midfielder has not represented his country since September 2024 due to a lack of players in the first team and lingering injuries.
The former Juventus player had previously expressed his desire to represent Wales at this summer’s World Cup if they qualified, but the recent defeat to Bosnia dashed those ambitions.
“This was not an easy decision,” Ramsey said in a statement. “After much consideration, I have decided to retire from football.
“I want to start with Wales. It has been my privilege to wear the Wales shirt and experience many great moments in it. It would not have been possible without the incredible support of all the managers I have played for and all the staff who have helped me in so many ways.”
“To the Red Wall. You were there through thick and thin! You were there through good and bad, and you were an essential and essential part of our success. We can’t thank you enough. We’ve been through everything together, and it was an honor to represent you. Diork.”
“Secondly, I would like to thank all the clubs I have been lucky enough to play for. I would like to thank all the coaches and staff who have helped me realize my dream and play at the highest level.”
“And a huge thank you to my wife and kids and my entire family. None of this would have been possible without you by my side.”
Ramsey is a product of Cardiff’s academy and made his debut at the age of 16 in 2007, making him the youngest player in Cardiff’s history.
After helping them reach the 2008 FA Cup final, he moved to Arsenal, where he spent most of his career.
He then moved to Juventus, Rangers and Nice, before playing further time for Cardiff before a final move to Mexico.
His international career with Wales was brilliant.
He made his debut for Wales in 2008 and went on to win 86 caps for his country, appearing in two European Championships and one World Cup.
He also flew the British flag at the 2012 Olympics.
