Monaghan's Conor McManus calls time on 18-year inter-county career

The 37-year-old scored 9-291 in championship football. 

Monaghan great Conor McManus won two Ulster titles and three All-Stars. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

Conor McManus announced his retirement from inter-county football on Friday after a career which spanned 18 years. The 37-year-old was one of finest forwards of his generation. 

McManus, who made his Monaghan debut in a 2007 league game against Roscommon and his championship bow against Down the same year, won two Ulster titles and three All-Stars. He scored 9-291 in championship football. 

“It’s been my privilege of a lifetime to play for Monaghan the past 18 years," McManus said.

"Days I will never forget, lifelong memories and friendships made with the boys. My absolute thanks to Banty (Seamus McEnaney), Eamonn (McEnaney), Vinnie (Corey) and Malachy (O'Rourke) for everything, every team mate I have played and trained with, along with every member of the back room team over the years, Francie our long standing kit-man, coaches, physios, (who saw plenty of me), doctors, sponsors, Monaghan Co Board, and all those who have helped along the way. 

"Best of luck to Gabriel and the boys for 2025 and beyond. Monaghan people and fans are the best in the country, sharing our best and worst days with absolute loyalty. I will miss the Clones roar and the buzz of it, but will be stuck in the middle of it from now on. Up Monaghan.”

The Clontibret man had dealt with a troublesome hip injury in recent years. 

“It is impossible to find words to do justice to what Conor McManus has contributed to Monaghan GAA over the last 18 seasons," said new Monaghan manager Gabriel Banigan.

"I was hoping and praying that Mansy could somehow have made his way back for one more championship campaign. All of us involved with Monaghan know that if Mansy felt there was anything left to give then he’d be back. 

"But what a legacy Conor leaves with us, not just one of Monaghan’s greatest but widely recognised as one of the greatest ever to play the game. I cannot thank Mansy enough for all he has done for Monaghan GAA, the exemplary standards he set, the incredible memories and for inspiring so many of our young people to dedicate themselves to Gaelic football and follow their dreams.”