Carl Jenkinson has brought the curtain down on his professional football career at the age of 33, choosing to retire just as Arsenal FC prepare to face Manchester City in the FA Community Shield final today. For a player whose career included eight years with the Gunners, the timing offers a fitting reminder of his journey through English football. Jenkinson’s retirement statement reflected on his highs, setbacks and the relentless work ethic that helped him reach the top level.
Carl Jenkinson Announces Retirement From Football
Carl Jenkinson confirmed his retirement after leaving Bromley as a free agent in May following the expiry of his contract. Reflecting on a career that began when he was eight, the former defender said he had given football “everything” and had no regrets about his journey.
He also spoke candidly about struggling with confidence during his career, despite receiving guidance from several influential figures. Jenkinson recalled former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger telling him to “take the chains off”, while highlighting Alexis Sanchez’s extraordinary training intensity as an example for younger players.
The 33-year-old urged aspiring professionals to combine confidence with hard work, stressing the importance of extra training and continuous improvement. He believes his own physical commitment and willingness to work harder helped him establish a career at the highest level.
Who Is Carl Jenkinson? Career, Arsenal Spell And Clubs
Born on February 8, 1992, Carl Jenkinson began his football education at Charlton Athletic and made his first-team debut for the club in 2010. His performances earned him a move to Arsenal in 2011, where he spent eight years.
During his Arsenal career, Jenkinson made 70 appearances across competitions and scored one goal, while also experiencing loan spells at West Ham United and Birmingham City. He later joined Nottingham Forest in 2019 and spent three seasons at the City Ground.
The right-back subsequently moved to Australia, signing for Newcastle Jets, before returning to England with Bromley in 2024. He made his final appearances for the National League club before becoming a free agent in May 2026.
Jenkinson also represented the England national football team at senior level, earning one international cap in 2012. His career may not have followed the path he once imagined, but his journey from Charlton academy prospect to Premier League defender and England international remains a notable one.
