Gareth Barry Biography: Gareth Barry, born on 23 February 1981, is an English professional footballer currently playing as a midfielder for Hurstpierpoint in the Mid Sussex League Championship. He holds the record for the most appearances in Premier League history, with 653 matches played across stints at Aston Villa, Manchester City, Everton, and West Bromwich Albion.
Gareth Barry Biography
Gareth Barry, born on February 23, 1981, in Hastings, England, is a retired English professional footballer best known for his remarkable longevity and consistency as a midfielder. With a record-setting 653 Premier League appearances, Barry is widely regarded as one of the most dependable players in English football history.
Over a career spanning more than two decades, he represented top-tier clubs including Aston Villa, Manchester City, Everton, and West Bromwich Albion, and earned 53 caps for the England national team, appearing in major tournaments such as UEFA Euro 2000 and the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Gareth Barry Biography 2025 Details
| Full name | Gareth Barry | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Date of birth | 23 February 1981 | ||
| Place of birth | Hastings, England | ||
| Height | 6 ft 1 in (1.85 m) | ||
| Position(s) | Defensive midfielder | ||
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Current team
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Hurstpierpoint | ||
| Category | Football Biographies | ||
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About Gareth Barry
Gareth Barry is an English professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Mid Sussex League Championship side Hurstpierpoint. He made 653 Premier League appearances for Aston Villa, Manchester City, Everton and West Bromwich Albion, the highest number of Premier League appearances in history.
Gareth Barry Achievements
Barry also had a notable international career, representing England at major tournaments. Barry began his professional journey at Aston Villa, having joined from Brighton & Hove Albion as a teenager. He spent 12 years at Villa, making 441 appearances in all competitions—including 365 in the Premier League—ranking eighth in the club’s all-time appearance list.
Gareth Barry Wiki
- Born: 23 February 1981 (age 44 years), Hastings, United Kingdom
- Number: 18 (Manchester City F.C. / Midfielder) ·
- Spouse: Louise Barry (m. 2007)
- Dates joined: 2017 (West Bromwich Albion F.C.) ·
- Children: Oscar Barry, Freya Barry
- Position: Midfielder
- Height: 1.85 m
Club Career Highlights
Barry joined Villa from Brighton in 1997 alongside Michael Standing in a deal ultimately valued at up to £2.4 million. He debuted in May 1998 and scored his first goal in April 1999. Known for his versatility and leadership, Barry became Villa’s longest-serving player by 2008 and held the record as the youngest player to reach 300 Premier League appearances at age 26 years and 247 days—surpassing Frank Lampard. Barry signed for City in June 2009, winning the FA Cup in 2011 and the Premier League in 2012.
Initially joining on loan, Barry signed a permanent deal in 2014 and spent three seasons at the club. He ended his Premier League career at West Brom before officially retiring in 2020. Following his top-flight retirement, Barry returned to grassroots football, playing for Hurstpierpoint in the Mid Sussex League Championship.
Key Profile
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Gareth Barry |
| Date of Birth | February 23, 1981 |
| Place of Birth | Hastings, England |
| Nationality | English |
| Height | 1.83 meters (6 feet 0 inches) |
| Position | Midfielder |
| Marital Status | Married to Louise Barry (since 2007) |
| Children | Oscar Barry, Freya Barry |
| Net Worth | Estimated $10.5 million |
Gareth Barry Family Background
Gareth Barry grew up in Hastings, East Sussex, in a supportive family environment. The son of a local businessman, Barry showed an early passion for football and joined Brighton & Hove Albion’s youth academy at the age of 14. In 1997, he made the pivotal move to Aston Villa’s academy, laying the foundation for a long and successful professional career. He attended local schools in Hastings, balancing his studies with his football development.
Career Beginnings and Progression
Barry made his professional debut for Aston Villa in 1998 at just 17 years old. Initially a central defender, he transitioned to midfield where he flourished. Over 12 seasons with Villa, he made 365 Premier League appearances, becoming the club’s ninth all-time appearance maker. In 2009, Barry transferred to Manchester City for £12 million, where he achieved major success, winning the FA Cup in 2011 and the Premier League title in 2012. He later played for Everton and West Bromwich Albion, further cementing his legacy as a consistent and influential player.
Notable Achievements
- Most Premier League appearances: 653
- 53 England caps and 3 goals
- UEFA Euro 2000 and 2010 FIFA World Cup participant
- FA Cup winner: 2011 (Manchester City)
- Premier League champion: 2011–12 (Manchester City)
- Captained Aston Villa
- Known for exceptional passing, composure, and tactical intelligence
Recent Developments
In a surprise return to football, July 2024 saw the 43-year-old Barry sign with Hurstpierpoint Football Club, a non-league side competing in the 11th tier of English football (Mid Sussex League Championship). The move was inspired by his close friendship with Michael Standing, the club’s coach and his former teammate. Despite his retirement from professional football in 2020, Barry’s return demonstrates his enduring passion for the game. Gareth Barry’s career is a shining example of dedication, professionalism, and resilience. From Premier League glory to grassroots football, his journey continues to inspire players at every level of the game.
Personal Life and Relationships
Gareth Barry has maintained a grounded and private personal life. In 2007, he married his childhood sweetheart, Louise, and together they have two children, Oscar and Freya. In July 2018, Barry experienced a personal tragedy when his brother, Marc, passed away in a car accident.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Holds the Premier League appearance record with 653 matches
- Named Aston Villa Player of the Season in 2006–07
- Has a personal connection to Hurstpierpoint, where he joined the local club in 2024
Charitable Work and Legacy
Throughout his career, Barry has supported a range of charitable causes, particularly those focused on youth development and community outreach. His legacy in football is defined by professionalism, consistency, and a reputation as one of England’s most reliable midfielders.
Future Plans and Cultural Impact
Barry’s decision to return to football with Hurstpierpoint underscores his continued love for the game. His involvement at the grassroots level is expected to inspire young players and contribute meaningfully to the growth of local football—further cementing his impact both on and off the field.
Gareth Barry Net Worth 2025
As of 2025, Gareth Barry’s net worth is estimated at $10.5 million, accumulated largely through his long-standing football career with Premier League clubs and endorsement deals. Off the pitch, Barry leads a comfortable lifestyle, with interests in property investment and a strong passion for other sports, particularly cricket.
FAQs
What is Gareth Barry doing now?
Barry has played for Temple Grafton Cricket Club in the Cotswold Hills League since 2019.
What is Gareth Barry’s squad number?
18 – Barry will wear the 18 jersey at The Hawthorns – the same squad number he held at Manchester City and Everton.
How many yellow cards did Gareth Barry get?
Leading the way is the man also top of the charts for the most Premier League appearances with 653 games – former Everton, Aston Villa and Manchester City midfielder Gareth Barry received as many as 123 yellow cards in those fixtures, and is therefore way out in front as the most booked player.
Is Gareth Barry out of retirement?
The veteran is pulling his boots back on. Former England midfielder Gareth Barry has stepped out of retirement to sign for non-league club Hurstpierpoint FC, who play in the 11th tier of English football.