Chris Solly, a Charlton Athletic legend, has indicated that he would retire from football after his contract with Ebbsfleet United expires.
Charlton Athletic has had numerous young players emerge through their academy levels throughout the years, including Chris Solly, who graduated before becoming a first-team regular.
The full-back made 313 appearances for the Addicks and served as club captain during his stint at The Valley. Solly won consecutive player of the year titles in 2011/12 and 2012/13, and he played an important role in their return to the Championship.
Solly has been with non-league team Ebbsfleet United since the winter of 2020, however he has recently announced his retirement.
Writing on X, the former Charlton Athletic player revealed that he will retire from professional football as his contract with the Fleet expires. He made the choice at the age of 33, although it appears that he will not be abandoning the game totally, as his announcement mentions a shift to coaching.
⚽️❤️ pic.twitter.com/9D8Sy1aoOd
— chris solly (@cjsolly) April 29, 2024
Solly played for only two clubs during his career: Charlton Athletic and Ebbsfleet. He spent the majority of his career with the Addicks in the Championship and League One, as well as helping Ebbsfleet earn promotion from the National League South.
A fondly remembered Charlton Athletic player
Solly will be remembered as a modern-day Charlton Athletic legend after rising through the youth ranks to become a first-team regular. He was a faithful servant to the Addicks, and his contributions to various major events will not be forgotten.
It will be interesting to see where he ends up as he moves forward in his football career.
Solly was a leader throughout his playing career, which should serve him well as he prepares to enter the coaching profession, combined with his extensive experience in EFL and non-league football.
Former club Charlton has previously given coaching positions to Jason Pearce and Johnnie Jackson, so a return to The Valley is not out of the question.
Solly will be warmly welcomed back to South London whenever he visits The Valley, whether as a coach or a fan.
