Antonio Valencia Joins All-Star Wythenshawe Vets Squad
Former Manchester United captain Antonio Valencia has made a surprising return to football, joining the veteran's team at Wythenshawe AFC. This move adds another high-profile name to an already star-studded squad of former Premier League players competing in the Cheshire Vets League. Valencia's arrival underscores the unique appeal and growing profile of this community club's veteran side.
Valencia, now 40, brings a wealth of experience and accolades to Wythenshawe. During his decade-long tenure at Old Trafford, he was a key figure, clinching two Premier League titles, an FA Cup, two League Cups, and the Europa League. He made 339 appearances for Manchester United and earned 99 caps for Ecuador, representing his country in two World Cups before retiring from professional football in 2021 to focus on his AV25 academy.
A Roster of Legends
Valencia is not the only big name on the Wythenshawe AFC vets roster. The team boasts an incredible collection of talent, featuring numerous players who once graced the Premier League and international stages. This assembly of former professionals has created a formidable side that's making waves in the veteran's league.
Some of the other notable former stars who have joined the club through their existing network include:
- Joleon Lescott: Former Manchester City and Everton defender, two-time Premier League winner.
- Danny Drinkwater: Ex-Leicester City midfielder, Premier League winner.
- Marc Albrighton: Another Leicester City Premier League winner.
- Danny Simpson: Defender, also a Premier League champion with Leicester.
- Emile Heskey: Former England international striker, played for Liverpool and Leicester.
- Papiss Cisse: Ex-Newcastle United striker.
- Stephen Ireland: Former Manchester City midfielder.
- Nedum Onuoha: Defender, also previously with Manchester City.
- Oumar Niasse: Former Everton forward.
- Maynor Figueroa: Ex-Wigan and Hull City defender.
- George Boyd: Former Burnley and Hull City midfielder.
- Jefferson Montero: Ex-Swansea City midfielder and Ecuadorian international.
Unprecedented Talent in Amateur Football
Collectively, the Wythenshawe veteran squad represents an astonishing pool of footballing prowess. Their previous clubs have paid approximately £140 million in combined transfer fees for these players throughout their careers. On the pitch, they've accumulated over 2,000 top-flight appearances, nearly 500 international caps, and a remarkable 21 major trophies. This level of experience and success is virtually unheard of in a regional veterans' league.
The team's performance reflects this talent. They have won all seven of their games this season in the Cheshire Vets League Premier Division, scoring an impressive 62 goals while conceding just eight. The club views these high-profile additions as a significant boost for its broader community efforts, providing inspiration for its more than 80 teams across men's, women's, and junior football.
A Community Effort, Not for Profit
Despite the incredible resumes of its players, the Wythenshawe AFC vets team operates purely for the love of the game and community spirit. The players are not paid for their participation; in fact, they contribute to the club. Chairman Carl Barratt humorously noted that his wife is responsible for collecting their £15 subscription fees, highlighting the grassroots nature of the setup.
Valencia's decision to join, like that of his illustrious teammates, speaks to the enduring passion for football and the camaraderie found in returning to local pitches. It's a testament to the club's environment and the network of former professionals who choose to continue their journey with Wythenshawe.
Key Takeaways
- Former Manchester United star Antonio Valencia has joined Wythenshawe AFC's veteran team.
- The squad is packed with ex-Premier League players, including Joleon Lescott, Danny Drinkwater, and Emile Heskey.
- Collectively, the team boasts over 2,000 top-flight appearances and 21 major trophies.
- Wythenshawe AFC is a community club, and players pay a £15 subscription fee rather than being paid.
- The team is currently undefeated in the Cheshire Vets League Premier Division, showcasing their continued skill.
— Editorial Team
