Joe Allen Retires from Professional Football at 35

Joe Allen, the celebrated Swansea City and Wales midfielder, has announced his retirement from professional football following Swansea's final Championship game against Oxford United. Over an 18-year career, Allen made nearly 600 club appearances—including for Swansea, Liverpool, and Stoke City—and earned 77 caps for Wales, playing at three major international tournaments. He was instrumental in Wales' historic run to the semi-finals at Euro 2016, earning a spot in the tournament's official team. Allen cited age, accumulated injuries, and a desire not to compromise his performance standards as reasons for retiring, noting he felt he could no longer reach the level needed for another World Cup campaign. He expressed deep gratitude for his career highlights, including helping Swansea win promotion to the Premier League and representing Wales in their long-awaited World Cup return. His retirement is seen as a significant loss for both Swansea and the Welsh national team.