England and Inter Milan defender Ashley Young ends 23-year career at 40 in 2026

Ashley Young, age 40, retires after a 23-year playing career spanning England, Italy, and multiple domestic titles.

Career starting point Ashley Young has decided to conclude his playing days at the age of 40 after a long professional journey. His early steps in football were made at Watford, where he first turned professional. Over the years, he represented clubs including Aston Villa, Manchester United, Inter Milan, and Everton before ending his career. Ipswich Town became his final destination, where he signed a one-year contract in July 2025 following his release from Everton. ## England national team career Young made his debut for the England national team in November 2007. Throughout his international career, he earned 39 caps and scored seven goals. Reflecting on his journey, he shared his thoughts on social media, saying, "It's been some journey that I only dreamt of as a boy." He also mentioned the bittersweet nature of endings, adding, "But with this dream there has to be an ending and Saturday might be the last game of my professional career .. 23 years and OUT." ## Final club chapter His last professional chapter was spent at Ipswich Town, where he featured in the Championship. The club heads into their final match of the season against Queens Park Rangers, currently in the second automatic promotion spot. They lead third-placed Millwall by one point and are two points clear of Middlesbrough in fourth. If Ipswich are overtaken, they would face the play-offs. ## Professional accolades and stats Young enjoyed a decorated club career, winning the Premier League, Europa League, FA Cup, and League Cup with Manchester United. He also secured the Serie A title during his time with Inter Milan. His final season was impacted by injuries, limiting him to just 13 appearances, with 10 of those coming as a substitute. His last outing for Ipswich was on January 20, where he entered late in a 2-0 victory over Bristol City. ## Decision and reflections Young discussed his retirement plans with a news outlet, explaining, "I knew I was going to have to come to this decision at some point." He acknowledged the physical toll of age, noting, "I'm not getting any younger and my body has started to talk to me now as well." His main priority was to leave the game on his own terms, marking a fitting end to his professional story.