Former Wales captain Ramsey retires at age 35

He has earned 86 Wales caps since 2008 debut, scoring 21 goals

Football - Serie A - Juventus v AS Roma - Allianz Stadium, Turin, Italy - Aug 1, 2020 Juventus' Aaron Ramsey celebrates with the trophy after winning the Serie A, as play resumes behind closed doors following the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) REUTERS/Massimo Pinca/File Photo

Former Wales captain Aaron Ramsey announced his retirement from professional soccer at the age of 35 on Tuesday.

Ramsey made his debut for the League One club Cardiff City in 2006 before joining teams including Arsenal, Juventus and Nice. He returned to Cardiff for a second stint from 2023-2025.

His final appearance was for Mexican side Pumas UNAM, who terminated his contract last year.

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

Ramsey won 86 caps for Wales after making his international debut in 2008, scoring 21 goals.

"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," he said.

Wales failed to qualify for this year's World Cup.