Wales striker Barton ends playing career

Wales striker Kayleigh Barton has announced her retirement from playing football.

The 37-year-old was named as head coach of Brighton-based Saltdean United Women earlier this summer after leaving Charlton Athletic.

And the 89-cap international has confirmed she has brought an end to her playing career.

“To everybody that has been on this incredible journey through football with me, I think it’s time to tell you that I’ve made the decision to hang up my boots,” said Barton.

“Ever since a young age, I’ve always loved football. From playing in the garden with my younger brothers, having the first letter for my Cymru age group call up, to representing the senior team at our first ever major finals.

Barton – who represented Cardiff City, Yeovil Town, Chieti Calcio Femminile, Brighton and Charlton during her club career – was a pivotal figure in helping earn Rhian Wilkinson’s side qualification for Euro 2025.

The forward netted four times in qualifying and went on to feature in each of the three group stage matches in Switzerland against Netherlands, France and England.

She scored her 22nd and final international goal from the penalty spot to earn Wales a point against Sweden in the Nations League in February.

Barton added: “To my friends and family… I can’t thank you enough for always supporting me throughout my football career. To the two people who have been there from the very beginning: you’ve travelled the country to watch me play, and even now, you continue to support every decision I make. Thank you – from the bottom of my heart.

“International football… What a journey it’s been. I’ve experienced incredible highs and tough lows, but those moments are what made this path so special. From receiving my first call-up, to seeing our names on the back of shirts, to being part of history with our national team – every moment will stay with me.

“To our amazing fans – the Red Wall – thank you for your unwavering support. You’ve stood by us through it all, and I’m grateful I had the chance to see you cheer us on at a major tournament. That will stay with me forever.

Barton also thanked “every player I’ve shared the pitch with” adding she was grateful to her coaches “for challenging me, for pushing me beyond my comfort zone, and for shaping me into the player and coach I am today.”

She concluded: “In football, you fight and go through it for so many years. There are so many highs, so many lows, but to finally achieve something that you’ve always wanted to do as a young girl and represent your country on the world stage. It means everything.

“I’ll definitely miss you all, but I think now is the time to say goodbye. Diolch am bopeth (thank you for everything).”

Barton holds a Uefa A coaching licence and will work closely with Saltdean’s first team managers Katie McIntyre and Amy Green.

Kayleigh Barton retires having seen her footballing ambitions realised in playing for Wales at a major tournament at Euro 2025 in Switzerland.

As a younger player, Barton may never have even dreamed that would be possible as one of the key Wales players who progressed from amateur to professional status as the women’s game grew and grew during her career.

Barton worked in supermarkets and was training as a plumber before switching to football full-time and she’s been a mainstay as the Wales women’s team have enjoyed a period of unparalleled progress.

Barton played for Wales 89 times over 13 years and whether playing as an all-action midfielder or striker, no player ever beat Barton for effort, endeavour or passion for playing for Wales.