Aaron Ramsey retires with immediate effect as ex-Arsenal star issues emotional statement
Aaron Ramsey has announced his retirement from football, bringing an end to an illustrious career that saw him win 86 caps for Wales and star for Arsenal.
Wales icon and former Arsenal star Aaron Ramsey has confirmed his retirement from professional football. The midfielder draws the curtain on a distinguished career that saw him play a pivotal role in Wales' remarkable run to the Euro 2016 semi-finals, earning a place in UEFA's team of the tournament.
He also netted the decisive goal in two FA Cup finals with Arsenal, having spent over a decade at the Gunners. The 35-year-old has been without a club since departing Mexican side Pumas in December, having not featured for the club since September. A shortage of first-team football and persistent injuries meant the midfielder had not represented his nation since September 2024.
The former Juventus man had previously expressed his desire to represent Wales at this summer's World Cup should they qualify, though recent defeat to Bosnia quashed those ambitions.
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"This has not been an easy decision to make," said Ramsey in a statement. "After a lot of consideration, I have decided to retire from football.
"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."
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Ramsey came through the academy at Cardiff, becoming their youngest-ever player upon his debut in 2007 at 16.
Having featured in their run to the FA Cup final in 2008, he moved to Arsenal, where he spent the majority of his career.
Stints with Juventus, Rangers and Nice followed, before a further spell at Cardiff ahead of his final transfer to Mexico.
His international career with Wales was nothing short of illustrious.
Having made his Wales debut in 2008, he earned 86 caps for his country, featuring in two European Championships and a World Cup.
He also flew the flag for Great Britain at the 2012 Olympics.
