Phil Jones Announces Retirement and Embarks on Coaching Career

Former Manchester United defender Phil Jones has announced his retirement from football at the age of 32, marking the end of an illustrious career that spanned over a decade at Old Trafford, BBC reported. Jones moved to United from Blackburn Rovers, making 229 appearances and winning numerous trophies including the Premier League, FA Cup, and Europa League. However, his last three seasons were marred by injuries, limiting him to just 13 appearances. Jones left United in 2023 and transitioned into a coaching role within the club’s academy.

In an interview with the BBC, Jones shared insights about his new career path. He stated, "My career finished shorter than I would have liked. I completed my A licence and I want to get out there and challenge myself in coaching. Ultimately, I want to take charge of a team. I am determined to get there." He expressed his frustration over the injuries that impacted his career and his family.

Jones, a product of Blackburn's youth system, caught the attention of then-United manager Sir Alex Ferguson in a match between Blackburn and Manchester United, leading to his £16.5 million transfer to Old Trafford in 2011. Ferguson praised Jones's potential, suggesting he could become one of the best players United ever had.

Exeter Chiefs director of rugby, Rob Baxter, announced that 21-year-old second-row Dafydd Jenkins remains uncertain about his playing return and will miss the English Premiership opener against Leicester on September 21. Jenkins, who captained Wales during their challenging Six Nations campaign, is undergoing rehabilitation for knee and shoulder injuries. Baxter emphasized the importance of addressing these issues now to ensure a strong comeback for Jenkins's promising career.

"It's tough and frustrating for Dafydd," Baxter said. "He has had surgery on a knee issue sustained on the summer tour with Wales, and he's also dealing with a shoulder injury. Both the club and Wales feel now is the right time to address these problems."

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