At the age of 33, he announced his retirement from intercontinental football.

Connolly, whose statement was released on the Dublin County Board’s official website, revealed that “Dublin has decided to retire from representing the GAA at the inter – county level.”

“I’m lucky to play with an incredible team of players and I cherish the memories of life,” the statement said.

“Throughout my trip to Dublin, I was fortunate to share this with an extraordinary group of friends who have shown unwavering support and loyalty to me during my time.”

The news is shocking.

Connolly Dessie Farrell was part of the squad for the league, although he did not play in any of the five games in Dublin before playing in March due to injury.

However, he played in every match for the St. Vincent Dublin SFC. He has been named in the Dublin squad for six consecutive seasons.

In the days following last week’s county final, the panel will train with their entire team, and it was widely expected that Connolly would find a place in that group.

However, he has been very low on the Dublin team for the past three years.

Connolly, who has established himself as the most accomplished Dublin footballer of his generation, has been relegated to the role of substitute for the 2017 All-Ireland final after returning from a 12-week ban.

He missed all the 2018 championships, spent that summer in Boston, and decided to return to the United States last year, and the technicality of his visa meant that he was turned away from customs at Dublin Airport.

Contrary to all expectations, he was later recalled to the Dublin team by Jim Gavin and won his sixth All-Ireland medal, halfway through his final victory over Kerry.

Diarmoid Connolly’s statement in full:

“Dublin has decided to retire from representing the GAA at the inter-county level.

I’m lucky to play with an incredible group of players, and I have cherished memories of life.

Throughout my trip to Dublin, I was fortunate to share this with an extraordinary group of friends who have shown unwavering support and loyalty to me during my time.

I thank my club, the St. Vincent’s GAA, and the Dublin County Board for giving me the opportunity to represent Dublin, from minors to seniors.

There has always been a strong relationship between the county board and the teams and players, which has had a significant impact on how we performed.

To all the senior management, support and medical teams in Dublin who have trained, treated and helped me throughout my amazing journey – thank you.

Thank you to my parents, my family and friends – for supporting me and always believing in me. You gave me strength in my journey.

Finally, I would like to express my eternal appreciation to the incredibly loyal, passionate and dedicated Dublin fans, who have always been there for us, regardless of the score. You will always hold a special place in my heart.

Thanks for the memories.

Diarmoid ”

Online editors