Former Arsenal winger, Theo Walcott, has chosen to retire from professional football rather than take up an offer from Saudi Arabia.
A mainstay of the Premier League, Walcott has decided to hang up his boots at 34, following a remarkable 23-year career and turning down potential offers from abroad.
- Theo Walcott retires from professional football at the age of 34, following a 23-year illustrious career.
- The winger thanked various figures in his career, especially Arsene Wenger for his support during his time at Arsenal.
- Walcott highlighted significant moments, including representing England 47 times and his memorable stint at Arsenal.
Theo Walcott’s journey began at Southampton, where he showcased his raw talent as a teenager. Later, he joined Arsenal, making a significant mark during his 12-year spell and notching up over 100 goals for the Gunners.
His stint at the North London club was followed by periods at both Everton and Southampton.
His love for the game was evident in an emotional farewell message he shared with fans.
Reflecting on his career, Walcott expressed immense gratitude, “The support shown to me throughout this time has been incredible in every way imaginable and I am truly grateful.”
The English winger went on to thank his managers, reserving special praise for Harry Redknapp and Arsene Wenger. “I would like to say a big thank you to all the managers and coaches I’ve worked with, especially Harry for giving me the start and Arsene for showing belief and support to me when I joined the club only 16-years-old,” he penned.
“Over 18 fantastic years in the Premier League there are so many moments I will cherish.
“The early days at Southampton, my transfer to Arsenal where I spent 12 enjoyable years and scored over 100 goals, winning in the FA Cup and scoring in the final which is every kid’s dream.
“To have had the opportunity to represent England 47 times, going to the World Cup in 2006 aged just 17 and still to hold the record for youngest every debut by a senior player, and youngest hat-trick goalscorer at 19 – I’ll never forget that feeling.
“Goodison Park is such a special place to play and Everton will always be in my heart. I loved my time there and will never forget the way the fans welcomed me and my family.
“And finally back to Southampton to complete the circle. It’s a great club with an exciting young team that I know will get better and better.
“I’m lucky enough to have offers to continue playing but it feels right to finish where I started and hang up my football boots. Thank you to everyone who has been with me along the way.”
Notable highlights from Walcott’s career include winning the FA Cup with Arsenal and memories of representing England on 47 occasions
His early introduction to international football saw him becoming the youngest debutant and the youngest player to score a hat-trick for the national team.
Moments like his inclusion in the 2006 World Cup squad at just 17 will forever be etched in football history.
While many expected him to continue, especially after expressing the desire to do so post his Southampton departure, the winger felt it was the right time.
There had been talks about a potential switch to League One Reading, but the stars didn’t align.
It’s the end of an era, but Theo Walcott’s legacy will continue to inspire countless young footballers in the UK and beyond.