Ipswich Town defender Ashley Young has confirmed he is set to retire from professional football, noting that his club’s upcoming match could be his final appearance after a 23-year career.
Looking back on his time in the sport, Young pointed to the legendary stadiums he has featured in, tracing his path from his early days to some of Europe’s biggest arenas.
“From Sefton Road to Vicarage Road to Villa Park to Wembley to Old Trafford to San Siro back to Villa Park to Goodison Park and finally to Portman Road. It’s been some journey that I only dreamt of as a boy!” he wrote on his verified X account on Thursday.
The former Manchester United and Inter Milan player indicated that Saturday’s game might bring his professional career to a close.
“But with this dream, there has to be an ending, and Saturday might be the last game of my professional career. 23 years and out!” he said.
He added, “To be continued…”
In response to the news, one of his former teams, Aston Villa, commended him for an exceptional career.
“250 appearances, 40 goals and one of the finest players in the modern history of Aston Villa. 💜 Congratulations on an incredible career,” the club posted on its verified X account.
Everton also shared its tribute, writing, “Congratulations on a remarkable career, @youngy18”.
