Conor Coady has announced his retirement from professional football just months after joining England's youth coaching set-up. The 33-year-old made the announcement in an Instagram video on Friday morning, minutes before Thomas Tuchel confirmed his senior England squad for the Nations League matches against Croatia and Spain.
Coady was last contracted to Championship side Wrexham, but the two parties mutually agreed to part ways on August 31. He briefly worked at Liverpool's academy before officially joining Lee Carsley's under-21s coaching team on September 4.
A career spanning eight clubs and 503 appearances
In his emotional announcement, Coady reflected on his journey from Rainford Rangers to the highest level. He cited eight clubs, 503 appearances, two promotions, a World Cup, a Euros, and ten England caps.
He said: "So where do I start? From being a young boy at Rainford Rangers, to living every young lad's dream and playing at the highest level. Eight clubs, 503 appearances, two promotions, a World Cup and a Euros. Ten England caps."
Coady added: "Football is my life. It always has been. But everything at some point always comes to an end. I never, ever thought playing for Wolves in Europe or going with England to a World Cup this day would come."
Tributes from teammates and former managers
Coady paid tribute to boyhood club Liverpool, Sheffield United, Huddersfield, Wolves, Everton, Leicester City, Wrexham and Charlton, plus his family and agent. He admitted the last couple of years had been tough, saying: "Not playing as much as I would have liked I have struggled with, as I live for playing footie."
Numerous high-profile players responded to the announcement. Everton's Jack Grealish said: "Nearly got me going (crying emoji) unbelievable career and what a human! Enjoy retirement, brother." Manchester United's Harry Maguire commented: "Top career mate, pleasure to be a small part of it," and Raheem Sterling added: "My captain."
Former Wolves teammates Raul Jimenez, Daniel Podence and Nelson Semedo also issued lengthy messages, while Kieran Trippier, now at Wolves, said: "All the best my bro." Reece James left a heart emoji.
Former England manager Gareth Southgate, under whom Coady played at Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup, wrote: "A lovely summary. Met you at that dinner in Bolton when you were 16 with your Mum and Dad. You've had a fabulous career and you should all be proud."
Coady never played under current England boss Tuchel, but his focus now shifts fully to developing the next generation with the under-21s.
