Mooy announces retirement from football
Socceroos and Celtic star Aaron Mooy has called time on his playing career, after an incredible run for club and country for the 32 year-old.
Mooy earned 57 appearances for Australia and cemented himself as a prominent figure in the national team for several years, establishing himself as a mainstay in midfield off the back of some truly memorable performances in green and gold.
After spending time in Australia’s youth set-up, which included appearances for the Young Socceroos at the U-20 FIFA World Cup in 2009 and training on the periphery of the senior squad, Mooy made his Socceroos debut in 2012 against Guam – netting a free-kick to open the scoring in a 9-0 victory.
In 2015, Mooy would go on to make seven appearances for the Socceroos in the calendar year – his most to date – coinciding with a stellar A-League season for Melbourne City FC.
This run of form for both club and country would continue, with Mooy securing a move to English Premier League (EPL) giants, Manchester City FC in 2016 before successful spells with fellow EPL sides, Huddersfield Town AFC and Brighton & Hove Albion FC.
“I’ve been lucky enough to live out my dreams of playing for Australia,” Mooy said.
“As a young kid, starting out in football you watch the national team on TV and imagine yourself there one day – to have lived that is something I’m truly grateful for.
“I’ve had the honour of playing alongside some of the best footballers that Australia has produced, creating lifelong friendships along the way.
“I wanted to thank my teammates, coaches and the backroom staff for all their support and guidance during my time with the Socceroos, the comradery amongst the group is something I’ll never forget.
“This has been a hugely difficult decision [to retire], but I feel the time is right for the next generation to be given the opportunity to experience international football.
“As a group we were able to set a new bar [in Qatar] for the Socceroos and I believe we have the talent coming through to build upon that as work begins towards 2026,” Mooy said.