Former Arsenal and Juventus midfielder Aaron Ramsey has disclosed that his contract with Mexican side Pumas was terminated by the club, a move that coincided with the traumatic disappearance of his family's beloved dog.
A Heartbreaking Turn of Events in Mexico
The 34-year-old Welsh captain's move to Liga MX last summer was greeted with significant excitement in Mexico. However, his time there proved short-lived and deeply distressing. Ramsey managed only six appearances for Pumas before a personal crisis unfolded in October.
His family's pet dog, Halo, went missing from a ranch in San Miguel de Allende. The distraught footballer offered a £20,000 reward for information leading to her safe return, but the search proved futile. Ramsey later shared a poignant tribute on Instagram, writing: 'What I'd do to hold you one more time.'
Contract Termination: A 'Surprise and Disappointment'
While many speculated Ramsey had chosen to leave Mexico to return to Wales due to the family heartache, the player has now clarified the situation. In a statement posted on Instagram, Ramsey expressed that he was 'surprised and disappointed' that the club opted to terminate his agreement.
'With their help and a lot of hard work I was ready and match fit for the remaining games and I was looking forward to giving my best to the Pumas,' Ramsey wrote. 'Unfortunately my contract was terminated which was a surprise and obviously disappointing. Therefore I had no choice but to come home to Wales.'
He thanked the Mexican people for their warmth and the club's medical staff for aiding his recovery from injuries, but the revelation paints a different picture to the assumed narrative of a voluntary departure.
What Next for Ramsey? Playing and Coaching Ambitions
Ramsey's immediate future in football remains uncertain. It is understood he is keen to extend his playing career at least until next summer's World Cup, for which Wales have not yet qualified. Craig Bellamy's side face a play-off against Bosnia and Herzegovina, with the winners meeting either Italy or Northern Ireland for a finals spot.
However, the midfielder is also seriously exploring a move into coaching. He has completed his coaching badges and is currently on the Pro License course. Ramsey gained experience last season by taking charge of Cardiff City for their final three games and was part of the Wales backroom staff for November's qualifiers.
'It's something that I really enjoy doing,' Ramsey told TalkSport regarding coaching. 'It’s addictive, so I definitely see myself going into that space.' This dual focus suggests the veteran player is thoughtfully planning for the next chapter, whether on the pitch or in the dugout.
