Veteran Monaghan forward Conor McManus has retired from inter-county football, his county board revealed in a statement this evening. He turned 37 last November.

One of the most gifted finishers in the game, McManus first played for his county in the national league in 2007, making his championship debut later that year against Down in Newry.

His career was decorated with three All-Star awards, two Ulster senior medals, and national leagues wins at Division 2 and 3. He also represented his country in the international rules series on four occasions, twice winning player of the series.

“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 (former county managers) Banty (McEnaney), Eamonn (McEneaney), 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 county board, and all those who have helped along the way.

“Best of luck to (current manager) Gabriel (Bannigan) 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.”

Popularly knowns as Mansy, McManus’ career covered three decades.

County board chairman Declan Flanagan paid tribute. “I must say, it has been a privilege to witness such exceptional talent performing day in and day out for his club and county. He stands out as one of the finest players to have graced our fields and stadiums over the past quarter-century.

“His skill places him among the very best and he has served as an inspiration to countless young athletes. His legacy will endure forever in Monaghan and throughout the national GAA community. In addition to his remarkable abilities on the pitch, he was equally impressive off it, always finding time for fans after games. It was common to see Conor surrounded by supporters from opposing teams after matches also. Thank you for the unforgettable memories and the grace you brought to the game.”

Monaghan manager Bannigan added: “It is impossible to find words to do justice to what Conor McManus has contributed to Monaghan GAA over the last 18 seasons. 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.”