It could be the end of an era as arguably Monaghan’s greatest-ever footballer, Conor McManus, has given strong indications that he'll likely retire from inter-county football following a 0-14 to 0-11 loss to Galway in the All-Ireland Preliminary Quarter-Final.
The Clontibret man made his debut for the Farney men in 2007. He went on to represent his country for an incredible 18 seasons, despite not cutting the mustard to be selected for the county minor team. Seamus ‘Banty’ McEnaney called him up to the senior team, first starting at wing-back, which just seems mind-boggling now.
Throughout his illustrious career, Conor McManus left an indelible mark on the sport. He secured two Ulster titles, two league titles, and three All-Star awards, a testament to his exceptional skill and unwavering dedication. His achievements stand as a beacon of pride for Monaghan and a testament to his status as one of the greatest footballers of his time.
McManus won his first Ulster title in 2013 and was instrumental as the Farney men ended a 25-year wait for a provincial crown.
His total of three All-Stars is equal to the most by a Monaghan player ever, with only Nudie Hughes equaling that total.
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Conor McManus's final act
Perhaps his greatest feat was being nominated for an All-Star last year, especially with all the painkillers and hip issues and possible replacement he had to manage just to even line out, as he revealed on the GAA Social earlier this year.
Probably sooner rather than later [he will get the hip replaced]. If I wasn't going back to play football this year, you'd probably be looking at it.
Conor McManus's likely retirement has been a decision that he has given much thought and consideration over the last couple of months. It's not that he didn't want to commit, but his body no longer allows him to give as much as he would like to. In his own words, 'I figured we'll give it one more rattle and see where it takes us.' This decision, while undoubtedly difficult, is one that we, as his fans, must respect and understand.
The hip injury I have, it just won't allow me to go much further...I imagine this will be my last [year with Monaghan].
I'm not putting any definitive. I'm not going into the year saying that. We'll take it as it comes, but it's hard to see how it could stretch to 19 years.
I have Vinny [Corey] there, who probably knows my body as well as I do at this stage, and the physio team. To be fair to them, they are brilliant at managing your load.”
In the end it was a nightmare season for Monaghan, with only one League and one Championship win.
Speaking to Jonathan Higgins of Off the Ball after the match, the Monaghan legend admitted that Monaghan football will go on despite the loss today.
It will be something that will come sooner rather than later. Look it, there's no secret. There’s not that much sand left in the clock; time waits for nobody, you know.
McManus had a similar sentiment for RTE, although he said he didn't want to make today about him:
"It's no big secret that the clock's running out on my innings. But it is what it is."
If it is indeed the end, Mansy has left us with so many unforgettable scores and memories.
Conor McManus 71st minute score v Tyrone in 2018.
One of the best to ever do it.pic.twitter.com/bwt6It9nw5— Balls.ie (@ballsdotie) June 22, 2024
