Aiden McGeady, the former Sunderland star and current free agent, has hinted that his illustrious footballing career could be nearing its conclusion.
After leaving Ayr United by mutual agreement earlier this month, the 38-year-old winger provided an update on his future while appearing as a pundit for Sky Sports. Reflecting on his recent exit from Ayr and his dual role as both player and coach, McGeady expressed gratitude but left his future plans open-ended.
“Firstly, I am very grateful to Ayr United for being able to have the task of the dual role I had, playing alongside coaching,” McGeady said. “Look, football-wise it didn’t quite work out, but I have learned a lot in the last six months, 12 months, in terms of the other side of football. I am very grateful to Ayr United and now the next stage of football.”
McGeady, who was a fan favourite during his time at Sunderland, left Ayr United after registering two goals in 19 appearances for the Scottish Championship side. While his departure marks the end of a short stint at the club, McGeady has yet to confirm whether he plans to retire from professional football or continue in a different capacity.
In his Sky Sports appearance, McGeady hinted at the possibility of transitioning to media work but stopped short of announcing his retirement. “We will see what happens. It is going to be interesting. I am going to have a bit of time off and just relax a bit,” he said. “Hopefully get to know these guys a bit better!”
Despite the uncertainty around his future, McGeady’s comments suggest that he is taking time to consider his next steps, leaving the door open for either a return to football in some capacity or a new career in punditry.
Who Is Aiden McGeady?
Aiden McGeady is a former Republic of Ireland international winger who has enjoyed a decorated footballing career across several leagues. Born in Glasgow, McGeady began his professional career at Celtic, where he made his senior debut in 2004. During his time with the Scottish giants, McGeady became known for his flair and dribbling skills, winning multiple league titles and domestic cups. He earned a transfer to Spartak Moscow in 2010, where he continued to impress on a European stage.
In 2014, McGeady moved to the Premier League with Everton, although his time there was interrupted by loan spells at Sheffield Wednesday and Preston North End. It was his 2017 move to Sunderland, however, that revitalised his career. McGeady became a crucial figure for the Black Cats, particularly after their relegation to League One, where his experience and creativity made him a standout performer. Over five seasons at the club, McGeady racked up 150 appearances, scoring 36 goals and providing 35 assists.
After leaving Sunderland in 2022, McGeady returned to Scotland, joining Hibernian in the Premiership before signing for Ayr United. At Ayr, McGeady took on a player-coach role, helping to guide the younger players while contributing on the pitch. Despite his recent departure from Ayr, McGeady’s legacy as one of the most skilful wingers of his generation remains intact.
Writer’s View
Aiden McGeady’s hints at retirement mark a significant moment for fans of Sunderland and beyond, as one of the most technically gifted players in British football over the past two decades contemplates his next steps. McGeady has been a crucial figure at every club he has represented, particularly at Sunderland, where his leadership and skill helped the club navigate difficult periods in League One. His experience, both as a player and more recently as a coach, will no doubt be valuable wherever his career takes him next, whether that’s in football or the media.
McGeady’s departure from Ayr United, combined with his recent remarks, reflects the challenges that players face as they transition from the pitch to other roles. As a dual player-coach at Ayr, McGeady had a taste of life after playing, and the learning curve may have sparked his interest in remaining in the game in a different capacity. That said, international retirements or call-ups, like those faced by clubs such as Crawley, also pose unique challenges, something McGeady will surely be familiar with. Whatever he decides, McGeady’s next move will be watched closely by fans who remember him fondly.
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