Brian Carroll announces retirement

Sunday’s season finale for the Philadelphia Union at home against Orlando City will mark the end of a 15-year career for veteran midfielder Brian Carroll, who announced his retirement on Thursday.

“As I look back on 15 years in MLS, it’s been a fun ride: I’ve had a lot of great teammates and great coaches, and I had the privilege to represent a number of great cities and clubs,” Carroll said in a news release. “I’m extremely thankful for the opportunity, and I really enjoyed it. It was fun to win two MLS Cups and four Supporters’ Shields, and along the way, to do my best to help grow the game and Major League Soccer.”

The 36-year-old Springfield, Virginia native is tied for fourth in all-time appearances in MLS with 370 dating back to his rookie season in 2003 with D.C. United. Nearly half of those (165) have been with the Philadelphia Union since he joined the team in 2011 but his only playing time this season has been two starts on loan with Bethlehem Steel FC.

He twice won MLS Cup with D.C. United in 2004 and Columbus in 2008 and won four consecutive Supporters’ Shields with D.C. United in 2006 and 2007 and Columbus in 2008 and 2009. On the international level, Carroll earned eight caps with the U.S. Men’s National Team, most recently in 2009.

“Brian has had a fantastic career spanning many different phases of our league’s development and all of Major League Soccer is indebted to him for his years of humble service,” Union Technical Director Chris Albright said in a news release. “I had the privilege of working with BC on multiple levels but no honor was greater than that of a teammate and a friend. The game will miss him greatly and I wish him my best in his future endeavors.”

Carroll’s immediate future plans include moving to Indianapolis, where he will pursue a career in financial planning.

“As I close this chapter, I want to thank, first and foremost, my parents and my family for their support over the years. I also want to thank D.C. United, Columbus Crew SC and the Philadelphia Union for giving me opportunities,” Carroll said. “I’m especially thankful to Philadelphia, as this has become a second home for our family.”