Melbourne City midfielder James Jeggo has announced his retirement from professional football after a decorated 14-year career that took him from the Isuzu UTE A-League to Europe and back again.
Jeggo was born in Vienna, Austria and moved to Melbourne at age 10, beginning his journey in senior football at hometown club Melbourne Victory, before a breakthrough stint at Adelaide United, where he won the FFA Cup and was named Isuzu UTE A-League Young Footballer of the Year in 2014-15.
He earned a move to Europe, where he would spend nine years across Austria, Greece, Belgium and Scotland, playing for the likes of Sturm Graz, Austria Wien, Aris Thessaloniki, KAS Eupen and Hibernian.
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In the process, the midfielder earned 15 caps for the Socceroos, featuring prominently under Graham Arnold.
Jeggo returned to Australia in January 2024 to join Melbourne City, where he made 19 appearances, including four this season before succumbing to an Achilles injury as the club went on to be crowned Australian champions.
“After a challenging period with injury, I’ve made the difficult decision to retire from professional football. I feel incredibly fortunate that my career has given me so many unforgettable moments and the chance to meet so many amazing people,” Jeggo said.
“I owe so much to so many for the role they’ve played in my journey, and I’m deeply grateful for the support I’ve received and the moments I’ve shared with friends, family, coaches, and teammates.
“Returning home to Melbourne with City has been the perfect place to finish my playing career, and where I now look forward to starting the next chapter of my footballing journey.”
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Melbourne City’s Director of Football Michael Petrillo added: “Jimmy is someone I’ve known for many years and has always carried himself as the ultimate professional, both on and off the pitch.
“Although injury restricted his time on the field this season, his leadership and experience were invaluable within the group and played a key role in our Championship success.
“On behalf of everyone at Melbourne City, I’d like to congratulate Jimmy on a fantastic career. He’s an exemplary leader and person – exactly the type of character we want around our environment. We’re looking forward to working with him in a new capacity as he transitions into the next phase of his football journey.”
Jeggo retires at the age of 33 with more than 300 professional appearances to his name.
