Former Arsenal, Chelsea, and Barcelona midfielder, Cesc Fabregas, has announced his retirement from football at the age of 36.

Fabregas, who spent his final season as a professional footballer with second-tier Italian side Como, announced his retirement in a statement shared on his social media accounts on Saturday.

The Spaniard stated: “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.

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“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. Cesc.”

Fabregas earned 110 caps for Spain in an international career which saw him win the European Championships twice and the World Cup.

The Spaniard began his career at Barcelona’s La Masia, but made his professional debut for Arsenal at just 16 and spent eight seasons in north London before returning to Catalonia.

Having only won the FA Cup with the Gunners, Fabregas enjoyed great success in Spain as he lifted LaLiga, the Copa del Rey, the UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup over a three-year stay.

Fabregas then returned to the Premier League with Chelsea and lifted the title twice, first under Jose Mourinho and then under Antonio Conte. He also won the FA Cup and League Cup.

The Star