Watford midfielder Palisch announces retirement | OneFootball

Watford midfielder Alli Palisch has announced her retirement from playing professional football at the age of 29.

The once-capped Republic of Ireland international announced her news via a personal video this afternoon.

Palisch has enjoyed an eight-year senior playing career that has seen her play in the United States, Sweden, The Netherlands, Iceland and England.

The midfielder joined current club Watford in summer 2022 after leaving London City Lionesses. Palisch helped The Golden Girls to win promotion back to the Barclays Women’s Championship following a one-season absence. She made nine appearances for Watford in the second tier this season, while she was named in the matchday squad for 20 of the club’s 22 league matches.

Announcing her retirement, Palisch said “Before I leave, I want to say thank you to the fans, you guys have been amazing. What a ride it has been from last year to this year. Through the good times and the bad times, you guys have always been there for us and it has meant so much.

“I want to say thank you a lot to my friends and my family, especially my family because they’ve been through a lot to follow me in my career path. I haven’t always been there, missed some important things but through it all, I know you guys have always supported me.

“Finally to my husband, he has been my biggest support. I know it has been hard with us being apart for so much of the time but I have never doubted how much you love me, support me and wanted me to continue to chase my dreams.

“I can fully say I’ve done it; I’ve achieved the dream that I had as a little girl. I couldn’t think of anything other than being a professional when I was a kid. It’s really been a dream come true.

“To my teammates, it has been a joy to be here every day with you guys. You’ve kept me going through some hard times and I hope that when I leave, you remember me for my smile, my personality and all good things.”

Palisch is the first player to confirm her Watford departure going into the summer.