Who Is Paul McGrath (footballer)? Age, Biography and Wiki
Paul McGrath was born on December 4, 1959, making him 65 years old in 2025. Widely regarded as one of Ireland's greatest footballers, McGrath's career spanned over two decades, during which he shone as a defender for clubs like Manchester United, Aston Villa, and Derby County, as well as representing the Republic of Ireland national team. His remarkable ability to read the game, alongside his physical prowess, has established him as a revered figure in the football community.
| Occupation | Autobiographer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 4, 1959 |
| Age | 65 Years |
| Birth Place | Greenford, England |
| Horoscope | Sagittarius |
| Country | England |
Popularity
Paul McGrath (footballer)'s Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Standing at an impressive height of 6 feet 1 inch (185 cm), Paul McGrath had a commanding presence on the pitch. During his playing days, he weighed approximately 198 pounds (90 kg), which complemented his robust playing style. His athletic build and agility made him a formidable opponent for forwards.
In the Republic of Ireland's opening game of the 1994 World Cup – a 1–0 win against favourites Italy, thanks to Ray Houghton's early goal – in a perfect example of his commitment to the game, McGrath put up an astonishing defensive performance despite excruciating shoulder problems, including blocking a shot from Roberto Baggio with his face.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Paul McGrath has had a complex personal life, which he has openly discussed in various interviews. He has children but tends to keep details about his family private. As of 2025, he remains single, focusing on his post-football career and philanthropy. While information about his dating life has rarely been public, he has emphasized the importance of family and support from loved ones throughout his journey.
His father disappeared soon after his conception. His mother, Betty McGrath, was terrified that her father would find out she had become pregnant outside marriage and in an interracial relationship. She travelled in secret to London to have her child, who was considered illegitimate.
She was strongly advised to give her son up for adoption at the Mother and Baby home in Acton, where she refused to do so numerous times. Upon her arrival back in her hometown Paul was forcibly taken away from her, placed with a foster family and later transferred to the Smyly Trust Home.
This was arranged and carried out by the Catholic Crusade members in Dublin. It was assumed that Betty McGrath gave him up for fostering in Ireland when he was four weeks old.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Paul McGrath's estimated net worth is around $12 million. His wealth is attributed to his successful football career and subsequent ventures, including media appearances and endorsements. Even in retirement, McGrath enjoys financial success, thanks to his reputation within the sport and various business investments.
Career, Business and Investments
Paul McGrath had an illustrious football career, known for his stints at clubs like Manchester United (1982-1989), where he first gained acclaim, and Aston Villa (1989-1996), where he further solidified his legacy. His defensive skills were crucial in helping Villa secure the 1996 Football League Cup.
After retiring from professional football, McGrath ventured into coaching and football commentary, and he has also invested in several businesses. He remains active in philanthropic endeavors aimed at helping young athletes navigate the challenges of sports and mental health.
Paul McGrath (born 4 December 1959) is an Irish former professional footballer, who played as a defender. McGrath is widely considered to be one of the greatest defenders of all time and was known by the nickname 'God' at Aston Villa. Mainly a centre back, he also played as defensive midfielder.
He spent the majority of his career at Villa and Manchester United (seven seasons apiece). He is one of only six defenders to have won the PFA Players' Player of the Year award. He also played for St Patrick's Athletic, Derby County and Sheffield United.
Social Network
While Paul McGrath is not the most active celebrity on social media, he does maintain a presence on platforms like Twitter and Instagram, where he shares insights into his life post-football, promotes various causes, and connects with fans. His followers appreciate his candidness, particularly regarding mental health and his journey through life after football.
By c. 1979, McGrath had begun to excel in sports, playing for the youth football club Dalkey United. However, it was at this time that McGrath suffered a "catastrophic mental breakdown" that would ultimately last for an entire year. McGrath was placed in the psychiatric hospital St.
John of God in Stillorgan; there McGrath remained in a "trance-like state, unspeaking, incontinent and covered in bedsores" while Doctors feared that McGrath may never walk again. McGrath was eventually able to recover from his episode and resume his sporting career.
Education
Paul McGrath's education was shaped by his early experiences in sports, with a strong emphasis on football from a young age. While he may not have pursued formal higher education, the lessons learned through his career in sports have undoubtedly informed his approach to life, resilience, and business.
In 1985–86, it appeared that McGrath was on course to pick up a league title medal after United won their first 10 league games of the season, but injuries to key players including Bryan Robson soon took their toll on the side and they eventually finished fourth in the table, 12 points behind champions Liverpool.
A dismal start to the 1986–87 season saw Ron Atkinson sacked as manager and replaced by Alex Ferguson in November 1986, but McGrath initially remained a regular member of the first team. United finished second behind Liverpool in the league a year later.
