Manchester United legend Phil Jones announces retirement at age 32

Phil Jones, the former Manchester United defender, has officially announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 32.

Jones joined United from Blackburn Rovers in 2011 but injuries saw him struggle to stay fit towards the end of his career.

The centre-back, who also played 27 times for England, left Old Trafford in May 2023 having played his last game for the Red Devils against Brentford a year prior.

Jones did not sign for another team and is now targeting a career in coaching having returned to United last September to help the U-18 side.

‘My career finished shorter than I would have liked,’ he told BBC Radio 5 Live as he explained the decision.

‘It was disappointing obviously but glass half full view on it, [I have] completed my A license and worked with the U18s a little bit which was really good and a valuable experience.

‘I want to get out there and challenge myself in coaching. Ultimately I want to take charge of a team. I know the steps to get there and I’m willing to take that and I am determined to get there.’

Jones was part of United’s Premier League winning side in 2013 under Sir Alex Ferguson in what was the Scot’s final season in charge at Old Trafford.

The Englishman also won the FA Cup in 2016 as well as the League Cup and Europa League in 2017 under Jose Mourinho.

However, consistent struggles to stay fit meant Jones only made six Premier League appearances in his final four seasons at United.

‘It was pretty obvious I struggled towards the end of my career. I gave everything I had and left no stone unturned and unfortunately, it ended how it did,’ he added.

‘But it’s easy to look at it [negatively]. I’ve made a lot of good friends and I’ve got some great memories of playing some really important games and winning some important cups as well.’

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