Two Former English League Stars End Careers for Different Reasons

Two names who once graced the Premier League stage have officially closed their Football careers. Aaron Ramsey and Oscar dos Santos Emboaba Junior chose to hang up their boots for different reasons.

Ramsey made this decision after a clubless period since leaving Pumas UNAM last year. 

The former Wales National Team Captain ended his career with deep reflection, recalling his long journey from Cardiff to the European stage.

“This wasn't an easy decision. After much consideration, I've decided to retire from football,” Ramsey wrote on Tuesday.

Ramsey's journey wasn't just about his club career but also his national identity. With Wales, he became a symbol of the Golden Generation that made history.

“It was an honor to wear the Welsh jersey and experience so many extraordinary moments. To the supporters, you've been there through joy and sorrow and were a crucial part of our success. My deepest thanks,” he added.

The peak of Ramsey's international career came when he helped Wales reach the Euro 2016 semifinals, an achievement that transformed the country's football landscape. 

He was also part of the squad for Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup, historic moments marking Wales' return to the global stage after 64 years.

At club level, Ramsey was known as a key figure at Arsenal since joining in 2008. Over more than a decade, he helped The Gunners win three FA Cups, including scoring decisive goals in two finals.

His career continued at Juventus, OGC Nice, and a loan spell at Rangers, before returning to his roots at Cardiff City. 

After retirement, Ramsey is expected to venture into coaching, closing his career with 21 goals from 86 caps for Wales.

Oscar Retires Due to Health Reasons

While Ramsey closed his career as part of a natural cycle, Oscar's story is more emotional. The former Chelsea playmaker was forced to quit after being diagnosed with a heart condition.

“I wanted to do more for Sao Paulo, I wanted to play longer. I believe I still have the ability and age to continue, but unfortunately this happened,” Oscar stated on his Instagram account.

Oscar experienced vasovagal syncope, a condition causing sudden drops in blood pressure and heart rate. The diagnosis came after hospitalization in November when he felt unwell during a physical test.

“Now I'll retire and continue supporting Sao Paulo, living life as a fan. I end my career at Sao Paulo, a career that took me many places, almost all over the world.”

“I want to thank everyone for their ongoing support, especially Sao Paulo fans who've supported me since my return and during this difficult time.”

Oscar's career soared after joining Chelsea in 2012, where he immediately won the Europa League in his debut season. He later became part of the squad that won the Premier League and League Cup in the 2014/2015 season.

His adventure continued in Asia with Shanghai Port FC, where he collected three Chinese Super League titles over seven seasons. He briefly returned to São Paulo in December 2024, closing the circle at his first professional club.