Former Scotland international Matt Ritchie has retired from professional football and has left Reading FC to take up a senior off-field role at AFC Bournemouth.
The 36-year-old winger has been appointed technical director at the Premier League club, bringing an end to a playing career that included spells with Bournemouth, Newcastle United, Portsmouth and Reading.
Ritchie joined Reading on a two-year deal in August 2025 but has decided to end his contract early after a single season at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
He made 29 appearances in all competitions for the Royals during the 2025/26 campaign, scoring once and providing six league assists. His only goal for the club came in a dramatic late victory over Bradford City.
Although injuries and limited opportunities restricted his impact, Ritchie remained one of Reading’s most experienced players following his arrival from Portsmouth. He also finished the season as one of the club’s leading assist providers.
Speaking after his appointment, Ritchie said returning to Bournemouth was “incredibly special” and described the role as an opportunity to build on work he had already been doing to prepare for life after football.
The former winger enjoyed one of the most successful periods of his playing career with Bournemouth, helping the club rise through the Football League before going on to play in the Premier League with both the Cherries and Newcastle United. He made 142 appearances for Bournemouth and scored 31 goals.
His departure leaves Reading with fewer experienced wide options ahead of the 2026/27 season as preparations continue for the new League One campaign.
