Aiden McGeady, the former football player, recently announced his retirement from the sport after a successful career that saw him play for various clubs and represent Ireland on the international stage. Reflecting on his journey, McGeady shared insights into his time at Celtic, his decision to play for Ireland, and his experiences with different managers throughout his career.
Growing up as a Celtic fan, McGeady had the opportunity to join top clubs like Arsenal and Manchester United at a young age. However, influenced by his father’s advice and the chance to play for his boyhood club, he chose to stay at Celtic, a decision he does not regret. His time at Celtic was marked by hard work, determination, and achieving his goal of becoming a first-team regular.
McGeady also opened up about his experiences with managers, particularly Gordon Strachan during his time at Celtic. Despite facing challenges and disagreements with Strachan, McGeady believes that those experiences pushed him to improve and excel on the field. His resilience and dedication led to him winning awards and playing some of his best football under difficult circumstances.
After leaving Celtic and playing for clubs like Spartak Moscow, Everton, and Sunderland, McGeady found success at Preston and Sunderland before eventually joining Hibs. Despite facing injuries and challenges towards the later stages of his career, McGeady remained passionate about the game and enjoyed his time on the field.
As he transitioned into a dual role as a player and technical manager at Ayr United, McGeady embraced the opportunity to expand his knowledge of coaching and recruitment. However, after careful consideration and reflecting on his achievements in football, McGeady decided to retire from playing at the age of 38. He expressed contentment with his career and mentioned that he is open to exploring coaching or other roles in football that align with his vision and philosophy.
Looking back on his career, Aiden McGeady highlighted the importance of hard work, perseverance, and staying true to oneself in the face of challenges. His story serves as an inspiration to young players and aspiring professionals in the world of football. As he embarks on a new chapter post-retirement, McGeady’s dedication to the sport and passion for the game continue to shine through, leaving a lasting legacy in the footballing world.
