MEXICO CITY — Aaron Ramsey, a former midfielder for Arsenal, Juventus, and Cardiff City, has departed Mexico after a short tenure with top-division side Pumas UNAM. His time with the club was marred by injuries and personal challenges, including the search for his missing dog.
The 34-year-old Ramsey signed a one-year contract with Pumas on July 1 but struggled with fitness issues, making just six appearances across all competitions and scoring once.
In a social media statement, Ramsey expressed gratitude, saying, “I want to thank the Mexican people for their kindness and generosity, making my family and me feel so welcome in Mexico City. A special thanks goes to the manager, coaching staff, and particularly the medical team for their support during my challenging injury period.”
In addition to his injuries, the Wales international missed practices and matches as he searched for his dog, Haley, who disappeared in early October after being left at a dog shelter in Dolores, Guanajuato.
Ramsey returned to the team facilities for rehabilitation but ultimately decided to return to Europe after a week.
“I worked hard and felt ready and fit for the remaining matches, eager to give my best for the Pumas,” Ramsey stated. “Unfortunately, the termination of my contract was unexpected and disappointing, leading me to return home to Wales.”
The Pumas have yet to address Ramsey’s comments made on Monday.
Despite signing former Real Madrid goalkeeper Keylor Navas in aims of qualifying for postseason play, Pumas were eliminated from contention, resulting in the firing of managers Miguel Mejia Baron and Eduardo Saracho, who were responsible for bringing Ramsey to the club.
After Cardiff’s relegation from the League Championship to League One, Ramsey concluded the final three matches of the 2024-25 season as the team’s interim manager.
Having earned 86 caps for Wales, he played a key role in helping his nation reach the semifinals of Euro 2016.