Recently-departed Manchester City icon announces retirement from football | OneFootball

Iconic former Manchester City goalkeeper Scott Carson has formally announced his retirement from his professional playing career.

Carson’s decision brings to a close one of English football’s most enduring and respected goalkeeping journeys, and a career that has spanned over two decades, countless dressing rooms, and some of the sport’s most prestigious trophies.

A player whose longevity and professionalism made him a trusted figure in every squad he joined, Scott Carson leaves behind a legacy of quiet consistency and leadership rather than headlines.

Beginning his senior career with Leeds United in 2003, Carson’s path took him through the Premier League, Championship, and abroad, with spells at Liverpool, Aston Villa, West Bromwich Albion, Derby County, and finally Manchester City.

Along the way, he earned England caps, featured in the UEFA Champions League, and became a valued mentor to younger players – particularly during his late years under Pep Guardiola at the Etihad Stadium.

Carson’s move to Manchester City in August 2019 initially came as a loan deal, intended to bolster the club’s experienced depth behind Ederson and Claudio Bravo, before going on to extend his stay year after year, eventually signing permanently and becoming a fixture in Guardiola’s squad culture.

While his on-pitch appearances were limited, his off-field impact was profound, proving to be a steady influence within a team chasing historic success across multiple fronts.

Now, announcing his retirement from his professional football playing career on social media, Scott Carson wrote in a statement, “After an incredible journey between the posts, it’s time to hang up the gloves.

“Football has given me everything — memories, friendships, and moments I’ll never forget. Thank you to every teammate, coach, fan, and club that’s been part of my the ride. It’s been an honour.”

Manchester City’s goalkeeping future remains in safe hands beyond the career of Scott Carson, despite other significant changes during the most recent summer transfer window through Ederson’s exit for Fenerbahce.

Gianluigi Donnarumma arrived at the Etihad Stadium on deadline day to come in as the aforementioned Brazilian’s full-time replacement in the number one goalkeeping position, with new secondary back-up support from England international James Trafford.

In third choice appears to be Marcus Bettinelli, who signed prior to the FIFA Club World Cup for a nominal fee from Chelsea, while Stefan Ortega Moreno looks set for a battle to remain in contention for matchday squads despite training as normal.