Northern Ireland defender Rachel Dugdale has made the decision to retire from football after a successful career that spanned eight years.
Dugdale first made her international debut in 2016 against Slovakia before racking up 43 international caps while playing for various different clubs in England.
Rachel Dugdale retires
Rachel Dugdale started her career with Doncaster Rovers Belles in 2017 when she was just 19-years-old.
After a short stint with the club, the youngster headed stateside for two years where she played for Boston College Eagles Women while studying abroad.
Dugdale returned to England in 2019 and signed for WSL2 side Charlton Athletic. Charlton offered Dugdale her first professional football contract, but her career took a big hit in 2022 when she suffered an ACL injury.
Once she had recovered from her ACL injury, the defender spent time at both Coventry and Reading before moving to her final club in 2024.
It was with Blackburn Rovers that Dugdale finished her career. The 28-year-old spent just one year with Blackburn before deciding to call time on her career.
A career to be proud of 🙌🏻
Thank you Rachel, for giving it your all in green and white. 💚🤍 #GAWA pic.twitter.com/e1njtCcz0P
— Northern Ireland (@NorthernIreland) September 15, 2025
Rovers were forced to withdraw from the English football system at the end of last year with all senior players released and staff made redundant.
Dugdale was unable to find a new club ahead of the 2025/26 season and decided to announce her retirement.
What did Dugdale say?
In a statement following her retirement, Dugdale said: “To the mighty GAWA, today I announce my retirement from international and professional football. It is with a heavy heart but immense pride that I share this news.
“Representing Northern Ireland since I was 15 has been the greatest honour of my career. Being part of the journey to our first ever major tournament was a dream come true, and I will cherish that memory forever.
“Thank you for your amazing support over the years. While it’s scary to step away from the game I love, I am excited for the new chapter ahead. This team and these fans will always hold a special place in my heart.”
