League: EPL Sport: Soccer Country: England Category: Scores & Results

Matt Ritchie retires and joins AFC Bournemouth as Technical Director

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 8, 2026, 3:08 PM

Last updated Jun 8, 2026

Matt Ritchie retires and joins AFC Bournemouth as Technical Director

Summary

Matt Ritchie has announced his retirement from professional soccer at age 36, concluding an 18-year career. The former Scotland international is set to take on the role of Technical Director at AFC Bournemouth. Ritchie made his debut in the Premier League with Portsmouth and had a successful stint with Newcastle United, where he played 215 matches and scored 25 goals. His career also included significant contributions to Bournemouth, helping the team to promotion in 2015. Ritchie has expressed gratitude for his time in the game and looks forward to his new position within Bournemouth's structure.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Ritchie retires after 18 years in professional soccer
•He played 215 matches for Newcastle, scoring 25 goals
•Ritchie begins role as Technical Director at AFC Bournemouth
•Formerly played significant roles at Portsmouth and Bournemouth
•Notable achievements include helping Newcastle win the Championship

Latest Updates

3:08 PMYahoo Sports — Matt Ritchie announces retirement

What they're saying

"
The 36-year-old has called time on his professional playing career spanning 18 years as he becomes AFC Bournemouth's new Technical Director.The 16-time Scotland international arrived at St. James' Par...
— Yahoo Sports

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