Aaron Ramsey’s Future Uncertain as Wales Prepares for World Cup Play-offs

Aaron Ramsey has earned 86 caps for Wales, netting 21 goals throughout his international career.

In light of the uncertainty surrounding Aaron Ramsey’s future, Wales manager Craig Bellamy has decided not to pressure the playmaker as the team prepares for its World Cup play-off campaign. Since departing from Mexican club Pumas in December, where he last played in September, Ramsey has been without a club.

Recently, Ramsey, 35, participated in the Reignwood Icons of Football golf event in Thailand alongside Welsh legends such as Gareth Bale and Ryan Giggs. With the play-offs approaching in just under two months, Bellamy indicated that he will allow Ramsey to determine his own path regarding his professional career.

“I haven’t spoken to Rambo in a while. I believe it is my responsibility to give him the time he needs,” Bellamy remarked. “I am neither planning with him nor without him; this is a decision he must make. Given his contributions to us and his overall performances, it is ultimately his choice. He will reach out when he is ready.”

Ramsey’s unexpected exit from Pumas was a surprise, as he had only featured in six matches, scoring the decisive goal in a 1-0 victory against Atlas on August 31. His time in Mexico was complicated by personal difficulties, including the disappearance of his family dog, Halo.

Upon returning to Wales, Ramsey was present for the national team’s impressive 7-1 victory over North Macedonia in their final World Cup qualifier and has been training at the Football Association of Wales’ Vale Resort base.

“If he feels prepared to continue, we will support him in that decision. If he believes it is time to step away, then let us know where you’d like your statue,” Bellamy added. “This is not about my preferences; it is about him. He is what matters most. Would I prefer a fit Aaron Ramsey at his best? Absolutely. But I recognize that such desires do not always align with reality.”

The Wales boss emphasized the need to respect the athletes, particularly those from Wales. “We cherish what you have done for us and the memories you’ve created. We will grant you whatever time you need; we are not pushing you. We have a different approach; we care for our own, and we support any decision they make.”

In other news, Ben Davies will be sidelined for Wales’ play-off semi-final against Bosnia and Herzegovina on March 26, as well as a potential final against either Italy or Northern Ireland on March 31, due to an ankle injury sustained during a Premier League match with West Ham United in January.

Bellamy could not confirm whether the versatile left-back would be fit for the World Cup in the summer, should Wales qualify. “If Spurs indicate he will be out until April, what does that mean for the World Cup play-offs? I’ve spoken with him, but readiness can only be determined when an athlete is truly prepared,” Bellamy explained. “From my experience with long-term injuries, recovery lacks a definitive timeline. It can be frustrating to adhere to an expected date. The body heals when it is ready.”