Ashley Young, the former Manchester United and England international, has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 40. The veteran winger and full-back, who currently plays for Ipswich Town, confirmed his decision in a statement on the club's official website.
Final Goal: Premier League Promotion
Young, who turns 40, expressed his hope to help Ipswich Town secure promotion back to the Premier League on the final day of the Championship season on Saturday. He stated, "I am incredibly proud and fortunate to have achieved everything I have during my career. It's not too often you sit and think about this while you are still in the game, but I have lived my dream during the last 23 years. It's now time for some reflection on what I've been able to achieve and the next few weeks and months will be when I decide what I am going to do next. But that is all to come. My full focus is on Saturday and helping this club achieve our goal, which is promotion back to the Premier League."
Manager's Tribute
Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna paid tribute to Young, saying, "Ashley's career in the game speaks for itself, and it has been an honour to have worked with him, firstly at Manchester United and then here at Ipswich this season. The professionalism, competitiveness, and quality he displays every day has had a massive impact on the group this season, and I know he wants nothing more than to end his career by helping us achieve our goal."
A Stellar Career
Young's distinguished 23-year career included notable spells at Watford, Aston Villa, Everton, Inter Milan, and Ipswich Town. He earned 39 caps for England, representing his country at Euro 2012 and the 2018 World Cup. During his nine-year tenure at Manchester United, Young won the Premier League, FA Cup, Europa League, and League Cup. He also secured a Serie A title with Inter Milan in the 2020-21 season before returning to England to rejoin Aston Villa.
As he hangs up his boots, Young leaves behind a legacy of consistency, versatility, and dedication to the sport. His final act could be helping Ipswich Town achieve a dramatic return to the Premier League.
