Former Chelsea midfielder confirms retirement from professional football

Former Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas has confirmed his retirement from professional football.

The 36-year-old has hung up his boots following an illustrious career full of success, including two Premier League triumphs with Chelsea. He also won the European Championship on two occasions for Spain, as well as the World Cup.

Fabregas made 739 appearances in all competitions across his career, 350 of which came in the Premier League. He scored 125 goals and registered 217 assists.

He will now switch his focus to management and will coach Serie B side Como, who he played for last season, and overseeing their B and youth sides.

What has Cesc Fabregas said upon confirmation of his retirement?

It is with great sadness that the time has come for me to hang up my playing boots.

From my first days at Barca, Arsenal, Barca again, Chelsea, Monaco and Como, I will treasure them all.
From lifting the World Cup, the Euros, to winning everything in England and Spain and… pic.twitter.com/Wuwj04WanB

— Cesc Fàbregas Soler (@cesc4official) July 1, 2023

Taking to social media, Fabregas wrote: “It is with great sadness that the time has come for me to hang up my playing boots.

“From my first days at Barca, Arsenal, Barca again, Chelsea, Monaco and Como, I will treasure them all.

“From lifting the World Cup, the Euros, to winning everything in England and Spain and nearly all the European trophies, it has been a journey that I’ll never forget.

“All those who have helped me, my teammates, coaches, directors, presidents, owners, fans and my agent. To all my family, from my parents and my sister to my wife and kids, I cherish your advice, mentorship and guidance. To my opponents who tried to knock me, thank you for making me stronger.

“It has already been more than worth it with all the great memories and friends that I have made on the way. I’ve also learnt 3 languages and became more compassionate and wiser along my travels. I lived experiences that I never thought in a million years I would even come close to.

“It’s not all sadness though as I’m now going to cross the white line and start coaching the B and Primavera teams of Como 1907. A club and a project I couldn’t be more excited about. This charming football team won my heart from the first minute and came to me at the perfect time in my career. I will grab it with both hands.

“So after 20 incredible years full of sacrifice, dedication and joy, it’s time to say thank you and goodbye to the beautiful game.

“I loved every minute.”

One of the very best.

Happy retirement, @cesc4official! 💙 pic.twitter.com/IeLU7DXHwJ

— Absolute Chelsea (@AbsoluteChelsea) July 1, 2023