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• Aaron Ramsey ‘curse’ ends as he retires after ‘killing off’ celebs from Bin Laden to Pope

  Arsenal and Wales legend Aaron Ramsey has officially retired from professional football at 35, concluding a 20-year career defined by major trophies, international heroics, and a bizarre internet “curse.” The footballing world pauses today as Aaron Ramsey announces his retirement at 35. The Welshman’s journey, spanning two decades, reached its pinnacle at Arsenal, where he became a legendary figure. Over 369 appearances, he netted 64 goals, including iconic FA Cup final winners in 2014 and 2017. His departure marks the end of an era for North London and Welsh football fans alike. Ramsey’s influence extended far beyond the Emirates. A cornerstone of Wales’ “Golden Generation,” he earned 86 caps and orchestrated their historic semi-final run at Euro 2016. Despite a career often hampered by injuries—including a horrific leg break in 2010—his resilience led him to Serie A glory with Juventus and a brief managerial stint at Cardiff City, proving his tactical depth and enduring quality. While his on-pitch achievements are undeniable, Ramsey retires with a unique pop-culture legacy: the “Ramsey Curse.” The bizarre phenomenon saw high-profile deaths coincide with his goals for years. From political figures to Hollywood icons, the trend fueled a decade of internet memes. As he hangs up his boots, the world of celebrity finally breathes a sigh of relief as the myth concludes.

• Aaron Ramsey ‘curse’ ends as he retires after ‘killing off’ celebs from Bin Laden to Pope

  Arsenal hero Aaron Ramsey has announced his retirement from football, to what we can only imagine is the relief of celebrities around the world.

  The legendary Wales midfielder has called time on his 20-year long playing career, which saw him make 250 Premier League appearances and play 86 times for Wales. The man who scored the winning goal in two FA Cup finals has been without a club since his contract with Mexican side UNAM was ended by mutual consent last October.

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• What will Viktor Gyokeres’ return to Sporting be like after controversial departure?

  Arsenal striker Viktor Gyökeres faces a high-stakes reunion with former club Sporting CP in tonight’s Champions League quarter-final, returning to the Estádio José Alvalade for the first time since his acrimonious £54m transfer last summer.

  ​Viktor Gyökeres returns to Lisbon tonight facing an “ambiguous” reception from Sporting supporters.

  While remembered for 97 goals and back-to-back league titles, his departure was marred by missed training and public disputes over a verbal release agreement.

  Sporting President Frederico Varandas famously refused to “accept blackmail and insults” during the standoff.

  Now at Arsenal, the Swede has struggled for consistency, making this quarter-final a crucial moment to prove his value.

  ​Mikel Arteta has defended his striker’s debut season, noting that Gyökeres is “very excited” for the reunion.

  Despite early difficulties adapting to the Premier League’s pace, the 27-year-old remains a focal point for the Gunners.

  Arteta insists the season will be “defined in the last seven or eight weeks.” A decisive performance tonight could silence critics and provide the spark needed to propel Arsenal toward a potential European and domestic double.

• David Raya addresses Mikel Arteta’s Carabao Cup final decision

  David Raya has addressed Mikel Arteta’s choice to bench him for two major cup exits, insisting he respects the manager’s preference for Kepa Arrizabalaga despite the team’s recent defensive struggles.

  ​David Raya has spoken out following Arsenal’s devastating back-to-back cup defeats. The Spain international was omitted from the starting lineup for both the Carabao Cup final loss to Manchester City and the shock FA Cup exit at Southampton.

  Reflecting on Arteta’s reliance on Kepa Arrizabalaga, Raya remained philosophical, stating: “It’s part of football.

  Sometimes you get picked, sometimes you don’t. You have to be there for your teammates.”

  ​The decisions have sparked debate after Kepa’s high-profile error gifted City the lead at Wembley. However, Raya is set to return for tonight’s Champions League quarter-final against Sporting CP as the Gunners look to regain momentum.

  Maintaining a professional stance, he added: “The boss decides who plays and who doesn’t and we are used to those types of decisions.” Arsenal now focus on securing a vital European result.

• Gabriel Martinelli unlikely to face further sanction for referee push

  Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli is unlikely to face additional FA sanctions for pushing referee Sam Barrott during the Gunners’ shock FA Cup loss to Southampton, despite calls from former officials for a retrospective suspension.

  ​Arsenal are preparing for their Champions League clash against Sporting CP amidst domestic disappointment.

  Following a crushing FA Cup exit to Southampton, concerns have grown regarding Gabriel Martinelli’s late-game conduct.

  The Brazilian received a yellow card for pushing referee Sam Barrott in stoppage time. Former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett believes the card prevents further review, as the FA and FIFA “want to avoid re-refereeing issues.”