Everton captain Seamus Coleman has confirmed he will bring an end to his remarkable 17-year playing career with the club when his contract expires at the end of the season.
The 37-year-old Republic of Ireland international has been offered a coaching role at Everton but says he will make a decision on his future during the summer.
Coleman joined the Toffees from Irish side Sligo Rovers in January 2009 for just £60,000 and went on to become one of the club’s most respected modern-day legends. He was appointed Everton captain in 2019 and leaves behind a lasting legacy at Goodison Park.
In 2024, Coleman became Everton’s all-time Premier League appearance holder, surpassing former goalkeeper Tim Howard’s record of 354 matches. His tally currently stands at 372 Premier League appearances, contributing 22 goals and 24 assists.
“After more than 17 years at this great football club, I’ve decided this season will be my last as a player here,” Coleman said in an emotional statement.
His final home appearance could come against Sunderland on Sunday.
Injuries have limited Coleman’s involvement in recent seasons, with the veteran defender making just three Premier League appearances this campaign. His only start ended after just 10 minutes because of injury in November.
Should he feature against Sunderland, Coleman would move into ninth place on Everton’s all-time appearance list with 434 games in all competitions, overtaking club icons Dixie Dean and Leon Osman.
Coleman has already taken steps toward a coaching career after earning his UEFA B Licence, which allows him to coach amateur and youth teams, as well as work as an assistant coach.
Earlier this year, following Sean Dyche’s dismissal, Coleman briefly took interim charge of Everton alongside former team-mate Leighton Baines during an FA Cup clash against Peterborough United.
The long-serving defender, who captained Everton 140 times, paid tribute to the club’s supporters and staff as he reflected on his career.
“I want to thank the fans for their unbelievable support. You’ve helped me in more ways than you could imagine,” Coleman said.
“I live in the city, I see you all daily, and I’ve taken your love of the football club back into the dressing room to explain to the lads how much Everton means to the people.
“I also thank my managers, team-mates and all the staff. They’ve seen me happy, sad, angry and emotional, but the greater cause has always been Everton.
“Thank you for making me a better captain and team-mate. It’s an incredible football club with incredible people.”
