A true Northern Ireland legend has hung up his boots! Corry Evans, our Euro 2016 hero, has called time on an incredible career, and the tributes are pouring in from teammates, old and new. From club promotions to international glory, what’s your favorite Corry Evans memory? Find out what’s next for him in football!

The football world bids farewell to a decorated veteran as Northern Ireland midfielder Corry Evans officially announces his football retirement, sparking an outpouring of tributes from former and current teammates, as well as his national manager. Corry Evans, celebrated for his dedication and significant contributions on the pitch, concludes an illustrious career that spanned over a decade at both club and international levels.

Evans proudly represented Northern Ireland Football 72 times between 2009 and 2024, leaving an indelible mark on the national team. A pivotal figure, he netted two crucial goals during his international tenure, most notably playing an essential role in the nation’s memorable journey to the UEFA Euro 2016 knockout stages, a period often fondly remembered by fans.

His club career showcased a remarkable progression, beginning his footballing education within the prestigious Academy at Manchester United. Evans went on to achieve multiple promotions with clubs such as Hull City and Blackburn Rovers, before captaining Sunderland to promotion glory at Wembley. Brief stints at Bradford City and Oldham Athletic also added to his rich tapestry of experiences.

In a heartfelt statement, Evans reflected on his extraordinary journey: “After an incredible journey, the time has come to hang up my boots. From coming through the Academy at Manchester United, to winning promotions with Hull City and Blackburn Rovers, captaining Sunderland to promotion at Wembley… I’ve loved every step along the way! Representing my country 72 times and playing at Euro 2016 will always be one of my proudest achievements.”

The respect Evans commanded was evident in the immediate flood of commendations from the current Northern Ireland squad. Players including Dan Ballard, Caolan Boyd-Munce, Ciaron Brown, Shea Charles, Ethan Galbraith, Trai Hume, Josh Magennis, George Saville, and Jordan Thompson took to social media to honour their former colleague. Trai Hume, who also shared a dressing room with Evans at Sunderland, shared a particularly poignant message: “It was a pleasure to play with you skipper. Enjoy the next chapter.”

A chorus of praise also echoed from former internationals, with footballing luminaries such as Alex Bruce, Josh Carson, Steven Davis, Jordan Jones, Andy Little, Matthew Lund, Niall McGinn, his brother Conor Evans, and Ryan McLaughlin among others, hailing the 35-year-old on Instagram. Niall McGinn encapsulated the sentiment, stating: “A career to be proud of and a pleasure to have shared the dressing room with you. Good luck for the next chapter.”

Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill added his own tribute, acknowledging Evans’ invaluable contributions. Michael O’Neill stated, “Corry was a player I always put great faith in. He was a key member of my squad for many years and was both talented and dependable. He was always a positive presence in any Northern Ireland squad, particularly for some of our younger players.”

Evans’ international debut came against Italy in a friendly back in 2009, with his first goal a dramatic last-gasp winner against Slovenia in a Euro 2012 qualifier in 2010. Having guided his nation to the last 16 in France at Euro 2016, his journey in football is far from over, as Corry Evans has now transitioned into a U-21 Coaching role with Northern Ireland’s U-21s, where he will assist manager Tommy Wright, promising to bring his experience and leadership to the next generation of talent.