Retired Aaron Ramsey in advanced talks to take charge at relegated Oxford United

Aaron Ramsey is in advanced talks to become Oxford United’s new manager, just weeks after announcing his retirement from playing, according to The Telegraph. The 35-year-old former Arsenal and Wales midfielder would take charge at the Kassam Stadium as Oxford look to rebuild following their relegation to League One.

Oxford have been searching for a new manager since sacking Matt Bloomfield last week. Bloomfield had only taken over from Gary Rowett in January but could not prevent the club’s drop to the third tier of English football.

Ramsey had been of interest to the Welsh FA amid uncertainty over Craig Bellamy’s future as national team manager, with Bellamy linked to the vacancy at Burnley. However, Ramsey is reported to have preferred a route into club management over an international role.

The former midfielder has been working towards his coaching badges over recent seasons and had a brief spell in charge of boyhood club Cardiff City. Should the Oxford appointment be confirmed, Ramsey is expected to bring former Wales team-mate Chris Gunter with him as his assistant.

Ramsey confirmed his retirement from playing only weeks ago after a spell in Mexico. In a statement, he said: “This has not been an easy decision to make. After a lot of consideration, I have decided to retire from football.”

He paid tribute to the Welsh supporters in the same statement, writing: “To the Red Wall — you have been there through thick and thin, through the highs and lows, and you have been an essential and indispensable part of our success. It’s been an honour to represent you.”

Ramsey also thanked his family, adding: “A huge thank you to my wife and children and all my family. Without you by my side throughout, none of this would have been possible.”