Carey Talley, a 13-year MLS veteran who played for five different teams as a midfielder and defender, announced his retirement from professional soccer today. Talley, who ended his career with the New York Red Bulls, appeared in 315 regular season matches, making 262 starts. His 315 appearances ranked eighth all-time in MLS history.
“I would like to sincerely thank my family, all of my friends, and fans that have accompanied me throughout the last 13 years,” Talley said. “I am proud to have been a part of the growth of MLS from its infancy to a league that has become a destination for world-class players. What a privilege for me to have been given the opportunity to follow my dreams and go out and compete with my peers everyday to make myself a better player and person. I have moved coast to coast and back, I have had many, many great times with my teammates in each city, and I have learned valuable lessons that will certainly inspire me in the next chapter of my life. Because of an ongoing injury, I feel that it is in my best interest to walk away from the game, but will always continue to give back to the sport that I love so much.”
“During his short time with us, Carey was a true professional who provided us a wealth of experience both on and off the field,” said Red Bull New York General Manager and Sporting Director Erik Soler. “We want to congratulate Carey on having such a successful career and wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors.”
A former University of North Carolina product, Talley was originally drafted by D.C. United 14th overall in the 1998 MLS College Draft. He helped United to the 1998 CONCACAF Champions Cup and Interamerican Cup Championships during his rookie campaign, starting 16 of D.C.’s final 18 matches, and was a regular starter during United’s 1999 MLS-Cup winning run.
Talley was in the nation’s capital until 2002, when he was traded to the Kansas City Wizards. The Memphis, TN native also played for FC Dallas, Real Salt Lake and Chivas USA before returning to United in March 2010. The Red Bulls acquired Talley on Sept. 15, 2010 in exchange for a 2011 MLS SuperDraft second round pick. During his career, Talley, who also represented the United States at several youth national team levels, recorded 20 goals and 28 assists in regular season play.
