Toni Duggan, the renowned former forward for Everton and Manchester City, has officially announced her retirement from professional football after an impressive 17-year career. The 33-year-old made her debut with Everton at just 16 years old during the 2007/08 season, quickly making a name for herself by winning the PFA Women’s Young Player of the Year and lifting the Women’s FA Cup the following year.
Duggan’s journey saw her excel at Manchester City, Barcelona, and Atletico Madrid, earning a place in the England squad with 79 caps throughout her career. Reflecting on her retirement, she expressed a mix of contentment and nostalgia. "The timing will always come for any professional in any sport," she remarked, acknowledging the bittersweet nature of closing this chapter of her life.
Having traveled across Europe, Duggan’s career came full circle when she returned to Everton three years ago, marking her final professional move. "You never plan for retirement," she said, revealing her surprise at concluding her journey back at the club where it all began.
In her inaugural season back, Duggan played 22 Women’s Super League matches, scoring two goals and providing one assist. However, she missed the subsequent season due to pregnancy, welcoming her daughter, Luella.
Post-retirement, Duggan is focused on family, stating, "When you have a baby, they become your priority." While she had offers from around the world, none felt right at this point in her life. She is, however, eager to remain involved in football, exploring various roles within the sport. "I’ve always had a passion for football, and I’ve always helped younger girls," she affirmed.
Duggan’s impact extends beyond the pitch; she has been a trailblazer in advocating for pregnancy-related discussions in women’s football, setting a precedent for future generations. "The women’s game is at a great level, but there’s more progress to be made," she commented, expressing her desire to contribute to its growth.
With a remarkable career spanning four domestic teams, nearly 300 appearances, and over 90 goals, Duggan leaves the sport in a better place, a testament to her legacy in women’s football.
Honours
Everton
- FA Women’s League Cup (2007/08)
- FA Women’s Cup (2009/10)
Manchester City
- FA Women’s League Cup (2014, 2016)
- FA WSL (2016)
- Women’s FA Cup (2016/17)
Barcelona
- Copa de la Reina (2018)
- Copa Catalunya (2017, 2018)
- UEFA Women’s Champions League runner-up (2018/19)
Atletico Madrid
- Supercopa de Espana Femenina (2020/21)
England
- FIFA Women’s World Cup third place (2015)
- SheBelieves Cup (2019)
