Former England international Andy Carroll has made headlines by signing for National League South side Dagenham & Redbridge after departing from French outfit Bordeaux. This move marks an intriguing new chapter in Carroll's storied career, emphasizing his passion for football beyond the game's higher tiers.

Carroll, now 36, recently spent the 2024-25 season with Bordeaux, scoring an impressive 11 goals in just 23 appearances. Despite Carroll’s efforts, the six-time French champions could only manage a fourth-place finish in the Championnat National 2—the fourth tier of French football, following their administrative relegation the previous summer.

His French adventure began at Amiens in Ligue 2, where he netted four goals during the 2023-24 season. Carroll’s time abroad demonstrated his continued ability to impact matches at various levels of competition.

The timing of Carroll's arrival coincides with significant off-field developments at the east London club. Dagenham & Redbridge announced on Saturday that they have been acquired by a consortium of prominent Qatari private investors, pending approval from the Football Association and National League.

Youseph Al Sharif steps in as interim chairman, joined by former club captain Anwar Uddin, who returns as a non-executive director. The new ownership and management team reflect ambitious plans for a swift return to higher leagues.

Andy Carroll’s career highlights speak volumes. Rising through Newcastle United’s famed academy, Carroll quickly made his mark, scoring 11 goals in just half of the 2010-11 Premier League season. His form earned him a £35 million move to Liverpool, a club-record at the time.

At Liverpool, Carroll scored 11 goals in 58 appearances before enjoying a more extended stint at West Ham United, netting 34 goals over seven seasons. A return to Newcastle in 2019 was followed by spells at West Bromwich Albion and Reading, showcasing his enduring presence in English football.

Speaking about his move to Dagenham & Redbridge, Carroll emphasized his deep-rooted passion for the sport:

“The level does not matter, I just want to get on the pitch and play football. I had clubs ringing me up from higher leagues but it has to be the right fit and what I want to do, rather than it being higher up or for more money. We have a project here to get the club out of the non-league. I have more excitement now than I ever have; I just love playing football and want to show everyone I’m just playing for the love of football rather than the levels.”

Dagenham & Redbridge’s relegation last season marked their first descent to the sixth tier of English football since the 1999-00 campaign. Carroll’s arrival signifies renewed ambition and optimism among fans and players alike.

Carroll's signing reflects both his love for the game and the club's bold aspirations, setting the stage for an exciting journey ahead as Dagenham & Redbridge aims for promotion and a return to prominence.