Professional footballer Joe Allen, a key player for Wales and Swansea City, announces his retirement from the sport.
Joe Allen Hangs Up His Boots at the Age of 35
The curtain falls on Joe Allen's illustrious football career as he announces his retirement at 35 years old. The Welsh superstar, who recently re-joined his hometown club, Swansea City, has decided that this weekend's match against Oxford United will mark his final professional appearance.
Born and bred in Wales, Allen made his debut for the Swans back in 2007 before spending several years with the team during his initial stint from 2007 to 2012. He helped lead the Swans to the Premier League in 2011, an achievement he also replicated during his time with Liverpool and Stoke City.
With 77 appearances for Wales, Allen comes second on the all-time list of international caps after Chris Gunter [1]. His most spectacular moment came in 2016 when he helped guide the Welsh team to the Euro semi-finals, earning a spot on the tournament's team of the week [2]. However, he initially decided to step away from international football in February 2023 before being enticed back by new Wales manager Craig Bellamy in October of the same year.
At the time of Bellamy's call-up, the manager praised Allen's high quality and eagerness to contribute to the Welsh squad [2]. Despite the temptation to continue his career, Allen has made the tough decision to retire due to the toll his injuries have taken and his inability to perform at his desired level.
His career will culminate at the Swansea.com Stadium, where he first took the field against Blackpool 18 years ago [3]. Reflecting on his decision, Allen expressed his gratitude toward those who supported him throughout his career, which he described as "really enjoyable." He added that it felt fitting to bring his career to a close "on [his] own terms."
Swansea City and the Football Association of Wales (FAW) have lauded Allen, with the FAW describing him as a "brilliant yet humble footballer" who will be remembered for his excellence, leadership, and inspiring work ethic [3]. Although details about Allen's post-retirement plans are yet to be revealed, following his official channels or the FAW website may provide future updates on his endeavors.
[1] "Joe Allen Retirement," Football Association of Wales, May 2, 2025, https://faw.cymru/news/joe-allen-retirement (accessed May 2, 2025)
[2] "Joe Allen Back in the International Squad," Football Association of Wales, October 1, 2023, https://faw.cymru/news/joe-allen-back-in-the-international-squad (accessed May 2, 2025)
[3] "Swansea City Captain Joe Allen Announces Retirement," BBC Sport Wales, May 2, 2025, https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/wales-football/59060075 (accessed May 2, 2025)
More on Wales
- EgyptAir crash: Coroner determines cause of plane crash that killed British passenger
- Cricket条ells ban transgender women from female competitions
- House fire in Cardiff leaves seven hospitalized; e-scooter deemed possible cause
Related Topics:
- Joe Allen
- Football (Soccer)
- Wales
Stay connected for updates and follow us on our channel!
- Joe Allen, who helped guide Wales to the European leagues' semi-finals in 2016, will bring his football (soccer) career to an end at his hometown club, Swansea City, where he made his debut against Blackpool 18 years ago.
- Despite being enticed back by new Wales manager Craig Bellamy in October 2023, Allen has decided to retire from international football due to the toll his injuries have taken and his inability to perform at his desired level in the Premier League.
- Allen, who comes second on the all-time list of international caps after Chris Gunter, has expressed his gratitude to those who have supported him throughout his career, which he described as "really enjoyable."
- Allen's career saw him replicate the feat of leading three different teams, Swansea City, Liverpool, and Stoke City, to the Premier League.
- With his retirement, Allen leaves behind a legacy of excellence, leadership, and inspiring work ethic, earning praise from Swansea City and the Football Association of Wales (FAW).
