Wales and Arsenal great Aaron Ramsey retires from football aged 35

Former Wales captain and Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey has retired from football with immediate effect at the age of 35.

Ramsey represented Wales at three major tournaments and was outstanding in their run to the Euro 2016 semi-finals. At club level, he won three FA Cups with Arsenal and scored the winning goal in two of those finals.

Having also played for boyhood club Cardiff City, Juventus and Nice, Ramsey had been playing for Pumas in Mexico in the hope of appearing at this summer’s World Cup. But Wales failed to qualify and with Ramsey struggling for fitness, he has announced his retirement.

“This has not been an easy decision to make. After a lot of consideration, I have decided to retire from football,” Ramsey said in a statement.

“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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