Former Arsenal player Aaron Ramsey has announced his retirement from professional football with immediate effect, ending a distinguished 20-year career. The 35-year-old midfielder confirmed his decision after his last stint with Pumas UNAM in Liga MX.
Ramsey’s retirement marks the end of a career that spanned top clubs across Europe and included a the golden era of the Wales national team.
“It was not an easy decision. After much consideration, I have decided to retire from football,” Ramsey said in a statement. “Firstly I want to start with Wales. It’s been an honor to wear a Wales shirt and have had so many incredible moments in it. It wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support of all the managers I’ve played under and the staff who’ve helped me.”
Ramsey’s decision comes after persistent injury problems in the latter stages of his career, as well as a desire to step down after a final attempt to represent Wales at the next major international tournament. His move to Mexico was seen as an attempt to maintain his fitness and form, but he eventually decided to bring the curtain down on his playing days.
“To the Red Wall, you’ve been there through and through. You’ve been there through the highs and lows and you’ve been a vital and indispensable part of our success. I can’t thank you enough. We’ve been through everything together and it’s been an honor to represent you. Diolchi,” he added.
On the international stage, Ramsey made 86 appearances and scored 23 goals for Wales, playing a key role in their historic run to the semi-finals of UEFA Euro 2016 and helping to end the nation’s 58-year wait for World Cup qualification.
Ramsey began his professional journey at Cardiff City before rising to prominence at Arsenal, where he enjoyed the most successful spell of his career. He brilliantly scored the winning goal in the 2014 FA Cup Final to end the club’s nine-year trophy drought, and repeated his feat in the 2017 final against Chelsea.
In 11 seasons with Arsenal, Ramsey won three FA Cups and was named Player of the Season twice before moving to Juventus in 2019, where he was part of their 2019-20 Serie A title-winning team. He also had spells with Rangers and OGC Nice.
“Secondly, thank you to all the clubs I’ve been lucky enough to play for and all the managers and staff who have helped me live my dream of playing at the highest level.”
– The end
Published on:
07 Apr 2026 18:24 IST
