Swansea City’s Joe Allen to Retire from Football
Swansea City midfielder Joe Allen has announced that he will retire from football at the end of the current season, with the Swans’ final match of the Championship campaign against Oxford United set to be his last game.
In an exclusive interview with the BBC, Allen revealed that he made the decision to retire around a month ago, after careful consideration and reflection on his career. "The timing’s right," he said. "I made the decision, got to 100% about a month ago. I wasn’t sure how the last few weeks would go, how I’d find things, but it’s actually been a good spell really. I’ve enjoyed it."
Allen, who has played for Swansea City since 2009, has had a distinguished career, playing for clubs including Liverpool and Stoke City, and earning 73 caps for Wales. He has been an integral part of the Wales national team, helping the side reach the 2016 European Championship and the 2020 European Championship.
As reported by the BBC, Allen’s retirement is likely to come as a disappointment to Wales head coach Craig Bellamy, who brought the Pembrokeshire-born player out of international retirement after taking charge last year. Allen had originally halted his Wales career in February 2023, in the wake of the 2022 World Cup, which ended in disappointment for Wales as they exited the tournament at the group stage.
Despite this, Allen has expressed his gratitude for the experiences he has had throughout his career, saying, "I’m very proud. I didn’t think I’d be sat here playing as many games as I have for clubs I have done at that level and for Wales as well. I’ve been incredibly fortunate and as I’ve reflected over the last few weeks very grateful and thankful to everyone who has helped me on my way to have these amazing experiences."
According to the BBC, Allen’s last game will be a special occasion for the Swansea City fans, who will be eager to pay tribute to a player who has given so much to the club over the years. The Swans host Oxford United in their final match of the Championship season, and Allen will be looking to go out on a high note.
As noted by the BBC, Allen’s international career has been marked by several highlights, including Wales’ memorable run to the semi-finals of the 2016 European Championship. He also started Wales’ final game in the 2022 World Cup, against England, having returned after a long-term injury lay-off in their second group match against Iran.
The BBC understands that Allen’s decision to retire has been well-planned, and he is looking forward to his future outside of football. As he said, "I’ve had a chance to reflect and take it all in. I’m really looking forward to what’s going to be my last game on Saturday."
The news of Allen’s retirement has been met with tributes from the football community, with many of his former team-mates and opponents praising his dedication and commitment to the sport. As reported by the BBC, Allen’s legacy will live on, and he will be remembered as one of the most talented and dedicated players of his generation.
