Former Italy international forward, Fabio Borini, has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 35 after a career that saw him represent clubs including Chelsea, Liverpool, Roma and AC Milan.
Borini confirmed his decision on Wednesday following the expiration of his contract this summer, bringing an end to a playing career that spanned almost two decades.
The Italian began his football journey in Bologna’s youth academy before Chelsea signed him in 2007 at the age of 16.
After returning to Italy, he joined Roma, where his performances helped him secure a high-profile €13.3m transfer to Liverpool in the summer of 2012.
Borini also represented Swansea City, Sunderland, Parma, AC Milan and Hellas Verona during his career.
He had initially joined Sunderland on loan before completing a permanent move to the Premier League club in 2015.
The forward later moved to Turkey, where he played for Fatih Karagumruk, before spending time with Serie B side Sampdoria.
He finished his playing career back in England with League Two club Salford City, with his contract expiring on June 30.
Borini also earned international recognition, making his only senior appearance for Italy in 2012. Liverpool have since wished their former forward well following his decision to retire.
Announcing his retirement on social media, Borini reflected on the journey that began with his move to Chelsea as a teenager.
“It all started with a flight. Thank you Chelsea. I was 16 years old. A flight I spent entirely with tears in my eyes, beginning the journey of my career with no real destination, other than the dreams I wanted to achieve. From that day on, I started building myself, without knowing what would become of that kid with such a strong mindset. I started building my dreams in my head, and somehow, I ended up turning them into my reality. The same reality that today will change forever. The reality that has shaped my past, my present and my future. Today, just like that day when I sat on a plane to London, I feel those same emotions about what lies ahead. Fear. Happiness. Courage. Uncertainty. Dreams. Success. Passion. Sacrifice. I want to thank that kid who never stopped believing. And the man I am today will keep believing in the next opportunity, this time without a ball at my feet, but with that same belief. Always. THANK YOU. THANK YOU, FOOTBALL.”
With his playing career now over, Borini is expected to consider his next move in football, with coaching, punditry or a role away from playing among the possible options.
