Former Swansea and QPR fullback Angel Rangel announces retirement from football

Ex-Swansea and QPR defender Angel Rangel has retired from professional football.

Swansea legend Angel Rangel has retired from football at the age of 38, after amassing 469 games in English football since arriving in Wales in 2007.

The highlights of Rangel’s career both took place at Wembley Stadium, as the Spaniard achieved promotion from the Championship with Swansea in the playoff final against Reading 4-2 during the 2010-11 season. The Swans also clinched the League Cup during the 2012-13 season, with another high scoring victory at Wembley, 5-0 over Bradford City.

The 38-year-old had not initially decided to retire but after discussions with his family, he felt it was time to make his family life more of a priority and called an end to his football career.

“I was ready to go back to train with QPR, but my youngest – he’s 10 – said he missed me, and I was his best friend. That broke my heart. I’ve been away from home for three years, so I just thought what am I doing? I’m 38, just enjoy family time,” said Rangel.

“I’m healthy and I’ve got lots of incredible memories, so it’s the right time for me to retire.

“I just want to take time to spend with my family and enjoy that. Of course, football has been a major part of my life and I’ve learned a lot, so I think I can give back.

After working with some of the games biggest coaches in Roberto Martinez and Brendan Rodgers, Rangel is open to the idea of a career in coaching.

“I’ll take time to speak to some of the coaches I’ve played under, and then get my badges. Then we’ll see what happens.”

The Spanish right back is still an avid Swansea supporter and is still hoping that the Welsh club “can get back to” the Premier League this season.

“I still watch the games, of course,” he said. “I’ve watched all of Swansea’s games this season, along with QPR.

“I’m hoping we can get back to where we belong – the Premier League. Whether it’s in the top two, or via the play-offs, it would be an incredible season under Steve Cooper if we could do it.

“I’ve experienced it as a player, and it would be amazing to experience it as a fan.”