Aaron Ramsey has agreed to sign for Mexican side "Pumas UNAM", choosing to continue his playing career abroad rather than taking the managerial position at "Cardiff City". The 34-year-old Welsh midfielder will become the first high-profile British player to compete in the Mexican league once the deal is finalized.
"There's a lot to play for and that World Cup is a massive carrot being dangled," Ramsey stated back in April, highlighting his ambition to represent Wales at next year's tournament.
The former Arsenal and Juventus player had been heavily tipped to take over as permanent manager at "Cardiff City" following his interim spell in charge at the end of last season. Bookmakers had even installed him as the strong favorite for the position.
However, Ramsey's departure now leaves the Bluebirds searching elsewhere for Omer Riza's successor. Several candidates including Des Buckingham, Brian Barry-Murphy, and Ian Evatt were previously under consideration, while Nathan Jones has now committed to a long-term deal with "Charlton".
Interestingly, Ramsey returned to his boyhood club Cardiff in 2023, but injuries severely limited his playing time. He's currently working his way back from hamstring surgery - not ideal preparation for a new adventure abroad.
"Pumas UNAM" finished sixth in the 2024-25 Mexican standings and have qualified for the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Reports from Mexican media suggest the talks were at an advanced stage, with TV reporter Andres Vaca claiming the move was "almost a confirmation."
Can the Welsh star revitalize his playing career in Mexico while keeping his World Cup dreams alive? The unexpected career turn certainly gives him a fresh start away from the pressures of British football.
