Wales captain Ashley Williams, 36, announces retirement from football

Wales captain Ashley Williams, 36, announces retirement after being a free agent since leaving Bristol City in June 2020… despite ‘recent offers’ from clubs to continue playing

  • Ashley Williams has confirmed he will be retiring from professional football
  • The 36-year-old defender has been without a club since June of last year
  • Williams became a free agent after Bristol City did not renew his deal
  • Wales captain Williams featured for Everton, Swansea and Stockport County

Defender Ashley Williams has officially announced his retirement from professional football.

The 36-year-old Welshman retires as captain of his country, though he has been without a club since last summer.

Williams departed Bristol City in June 2020, after they opted against renewing his deal at Ashton Gate.

Wales captain Ashley Williams has confirmed he will be hanging his boots up for the last time

Wolverhampton-born Williams made more than 700 appearances for clubs throughout his playing career, including the likes of Stockport County and Swansea City before getting a big move to Everton.

Williams released the news via his social media channels, through which a statement was issued to supporters.

Williams wrote: ‘After consideration of recent offers to continue playing, I would like to announce my retirement as a professional footballer.

Williams was a mainstay in the Wales team and captained the side in the Euro 2016 semi-final

Williams got his big move to Everton in 2016 and turned out 60 times for the Merseyside club

‘It has been an honour to play 741 games across all levels of English football leagues and to represent some incredible teams.

‘It has been an unbelievable journey and one I will look back on with my family and be immensely proud of. 

‘Started from non-league to playing at the highest level in the Premier League, as well as representing my country on 86 occasions was beyond my wildest dreams.

‘Captaining Wales in a semi-final (of the) European Championships in 2016 was my greatest achievement and something I will never forget.

‘Football has taught me so much both on and off the field and I will take this with me into the next chapter. I look forward to still being involved in the game in the future.’ 




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