Aston Villa Women can confirm Anita Asante will retire from professional football at the end of the current campaign.
Asante, 36, is one of England's most decorated footballers having represented her country at two FIFA World Cups and three UEFA European Championships, as well as proudly playing for Team GB at the London 2012 Olympic Games.
The central defender has enjoyed a glittering career which has involved spells abroad and in England with Arsenal, Chelsea and now, Aston Villa.
Asante joined the club in the summer of 2020 following our promotion from the FA Women's Championship.
Our number six has gone on to make 44 appearances in all competitions and has scored two goals in the process, the second of which was a game-winning header against Birmingham City at St. Andrew's.
Asante said: “The last two seasons with Villa has been a great experience, and to be part of supporting the next generation of players . It's great to have a historic and massive club like Villa in the Midlands and it has a very ambitious future, and I know they will inspire many young girls to play football and enjoy the highs of the game that I have been so fortunate to experience.”
Asante has also become one of the game’s leading advocates and allies, championing marginalised communities and women’s football through her work in the media and organisations like Show Racism the Red Card, Amnesty International and Goals for Girls.
“I'm really excited about what the future holds, and I hope to continue play a positive and impactful part in the growth of the women's game on the other side of the lines, be it in the media and in club management."
Aston Villa will commemorate the achievements of Anita Asante ahead of our final-day fixture against Birmingham City at Villa Park on Sunday, May 8.
Congratulations on a fantastic career, Neetz!
