Former Manchester United academy graduate James Weir has announced that he has retired from professional football at the age of 28, after a 10-year career. 

Weir, who hails from Preston, began playing for United at U18s level, rising through the ranks to make his Premier League debut for the club back in 2016, aged 20. 

The central midfielder interestingly made his debut alongside Marcus Rashford during Man United’s 3-2 win against Arsenal at Old Trafford on February 28, 2016. 

That would be Weir’s only senior appearance for the club, despite the 28-year-old wining two Premier League 2 titles during his time with United.

Former Man United starlet James Weir has announced his retirement from professional football 

Weir made his debut alongside Marcus Rashford (pictured) in a 3-2 victory against Arsenal in 2016

He’d subsequently leave Old Trafford and join Hull City in the summer of 2016 before going on to enjoy spells at Wigan and Bolton.

The centre midfielder would subsequently leave the UK to join Slovakian second-tier side FK Pohronie in 2020.

He’d score eight goals 39 appearances before upping sticks again a year later – this time to join MTK Budapest on a free transfer

The 28-year-old was subsequently released by MTK and would be without a club for approximately a year before he would be picked up by Slovakian side FC Vion in July, 2023. 

Weir, who earned caps for England at U18 and U19 level, announced his retirement on Instagram on Tuesday, writing: ‘Life update. After a lot of thought and consideration I’ve decided to hang up my boots professionally.

‘A bittersweet moment, but I can look back on my career with happy memories.

‘Despite my injuries I’ve met some incredible people, forged life-long relationships and travelled the world doing what I love.

He announced his decision to retire on Instagram stating he had ‘lived his dream’ 

Weir would go on to enjoy spells with Hull, Wigan and Bolton after leaving Man United

The central midfielder would also represent England at U18 and U19 level, going on to play for Slovakian second-tier side FK Pohronie, MTK Budapest and FC Vion

‘Huge thank you to family, friends, coaches, team-mates and fans who’ve all helped me on my journey.

‘Through the highs, lows and everything in between, I’ve lived my dream. I’m excited in the pursuit of living my next dream away from the beautiful game.’