Wales legend Aaron Ramsey retires from football as former Arsenal star issues emotional statement

Ed Griffiths
Tue, 07 Apr 2026 11:43:02 +0000

Aaron Ramsey has confirmed his retirement from professional football at the age of 35, drawing the curtain on a two-decade playing career.

The former Arsenal and Wales midfielder announced his decision on Instagram on Tuesday morning, describing it as a difficult choice.

He wrote: "This has not been an easy decision to make. After a lot of consideration, I have decided to retire from football."

The Welshman accumulated more than 600 appearances across club and international football during his career.

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He has been a free agent since parting ways with Mexican club Pumas by mutual consent last October, having made just six appearances for the Liga MX side.

Ramsey's trophy cabinet includes three FA Cup winners' medals, all secured during his 11-year tenure at Arsenal, where he featured in 369 matches and netted 64 goals.

The midfielder began his journey at boyhood club Cardiff City before legendary manager Arsène Wenger brought him to north London.

His international career saw him represent Wales 86 times, scoring 21 goals.

Ramsey expressed profound gratitude to his national team in his farewell message, describing wearing the Welsh shirt as a privilege filled with incredible moments.

He paid particular tribute to the Red Wall, Wales' devoted travelling supporters.

The statement continued: "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."

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He added: "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. 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."

Following his departure from Emirates, Ramsey secured a move to Serie A giants Juventus, where he won a league title and made 70 appearances.

Subsequent spells took him to Nice, Rangers, and a return to Cardiff before his brief Mexican adventure with Pumas.

Wales' recent World Cup qualifying play-off loss against Bosnia and Herzegovina extinguished any prospect of Ramsey bowing out on football's grandest stage.

The midfielder, who remained the national team captain until his retirement, earned his final international cap in 2024.

A combination of persistent injuries and limited playing time saw him overlooked for the crucial qualifier.

Despite winning six major honours throughout his career, Ramsey's playing days were frequently disrupted by fitness setbacks.

The 35-year-old is not stepping away from physical activity entirely, however, with plans to participate in this year's TCS London Marathon on April 26.

His time in Mexico was also marked by personal difficulty when the family's dog Halo went missing in October.