mulryne_philip
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| Name: Philip Patrick Stephen Mulryne |
Nationality: Northern Ireland |
| Position: Midfielder |
Signing Information: Signed Trainee: 11/07/1994. Signed Professional: 17/03/1995 |
| Birthdate: 01-01-1978 |
Years at Club: 1997-1999 |
| Age: (46) |
Debut: 14/10/1997 v Ipswich Town (A) 0-2 (League Cup 3rd Round) |
| Birthplace: Belfast, Northern Ireland |
Previous clubs: |
| Height: 5' 8" (1.73m) |
Farewell to Manchester United: Transferred to Norwich City, 03/1999, £500,000 |
| Weight: 10st 11lbs (68.49kg) |
Passed Away: |
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| Philip Mulryne is a former Northern Irish footballer who played as a midfielder, most notably for Manchester United and Norwich City. After retiring from football, Mulryne made a dramatic career change, becoming an ordained Catholic priest in 2017. His journey from Premier League footballer to priesthood is one of the most unique stories in football.
Early Career at Manchester United
Mulryne joined Manchester United’s youth academy in the 1990s and was regarded as a promising talent. He was part of the same youth system that produced stars such as David Beckham and Ryan Giggs. Mulryne made his senior debut for Manchester United in 1997, but with competition from established players like Paul Scholes and Roy Keane, he struggled to secure regular first-team football.
During his time at Manchester United, Mulryne made just one Premier League appearance, and although he showed potential, he ultimately sought more regular playing time elsewhere.
Move to Norwich City
In 1999, Mulryne transferred to Norwich City for £500,000 in search of more playing opportunities. At Norwich, Mulryne became a regular starter and a fan favorite, helping the club secure promotion to the Premier League in 2004. His ability to control the midfield and contribute goals from the middle of the park made him a valuable asset to the team. Mulryne made over 160 appearances for Norwich during his six years at the club.
Later Career
After his spell at Norwich City, Mulryne had brief stints at Cardiff City, Leyton Orient, and King’s Lynn. However, injuries plagued his later playing career, and he eventually retired from professional football in 2008.
International Career
Mulryne was a regular member of the Northern Ireland national team, earning 27 caps and scoring 3 goals. He represented Northern Ireland from 1997 to 2007, becoming an important figure in their midfield during his international career.
Post-Football: Transition to Priesthood
Following his retirement from football, Mulryne took a path very different from most former players. In 2009, he began studying for the priesthood, entering the Diocese of Down and Connor. Mulryne joined the Dominican Order and studied philosophy and theology. In 2017, he was ordained as a Catholic priest, an extraordinary transformation from his previous life as a professional footballer.
Mulryne’s decision to join the priesthood was motivated by a deep spiritual calling, and he is now dedicated to serving the church. He is widely respected for making such a profound life change and has become an inspirational figure to many.
Legacy
Philip Mulryne is remembered not just for his football career at Manchester United and Norwich City, but also for his remarkable transition from a professional athlete to a Catholic priest. His story is one of personal transformation and spiritual fulfillment, demonstrating that life after football can take unexpected and meaningful directions.
Summary
Philip Mulryne started his career as a talented midfielder at Manchester United, before moving to Norwich City, where he became a key player. After earning 27 caps for Northern Ireland and retiring from football, Mulryne followed a spiritual calling and became a Catholic priest in 2017. His journey from football to priesthood is one of the most unique and inspiring stories in the sport. Reverend Fr Philip Mulryne after leaving football, became a Northern Irish Dominican friar and priest in the Catholic church. |
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League Cup |
FA Cup |
Charity Shield |
European Cup |
Europa League |
Super Cup |
Cup Winners Cup |
Inter-Continental Cup |
World Clubs Cup |
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Season
Goals |
Season
Apps |
| 1 |
1997-1998 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
3 |
| 2 |
1998-1999 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
| TOTALS |
0 |
1 |
0 |
3 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
5 |
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