Arsenal's FA Cup hero takes unbelievable step towards major international ambition

Former Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey is closing in on a move to Mexican club Pumas UNAM, marking a significant next chapter in a decorated career.

The 34-year-old is expected to sign a one-year deal with the Mexico City-based side, with an option for a further season. He has already completed his medical and is due to finalise the agreement on Tuesday.

Ramsey’s transfer would make him the first high-profile British player to feature in Liga MX, a league rarely chosen by top European professionals.

The Wales captain’s contract expired at Cardiff City, where he returned in 2023 but faced persistent hamstring issues, making 11 appearances in the 2024/25 season.

In April, he briefly stepped into a managerial role as interim boss for Cardiff’s final three Championship matches. He oversaw two draws and a defeat as the club were relegated to League One.

Despite speculation about continuing in a coaching role at Cardiff, Ramsey made it clear that he still had playing ambitions, especially with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon.

Ramsey had offers from Saudi Arabia and the UAE, but chose a competitive move to Mexico instead. Reports suggest he was impressed by Pumas’ vision during a recent visit to their Cantera training complex.

The move was facilitated by agent David Baldwin, who also represents Pumas manager Efrain Juarez. Ramsey is expected to earn around $2.5 million annually at his new club, a considerable step up from his wages at Cardiff.

Pumas finished sixth in the Liga MX standings last season and have qualified for the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup. They begin the new campaign on 13 July.

Ramsey spent 11 years at Arsenal, scoring 64 goals and providing 60 assists in 369 appearances. He famously netted the winning goals in two FA Cup finals and was instrumental in the club’s post-Highbury era success.

His move to Mexico is both a personal challenge and an opportunity to maintain fitness and relevance ahead of what could be a final major international tournament with Wales.

Pumas, meanwhile, gain an experienced leader and global name to spearhead their upcoming season.

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