Cesc Fabregas Announces Retirement After Glittering Career
Cesc Fabregas has announced his immediate retirement from football to move into a coaching role. The former Arsenal, Barcelona, Chelsea and Spain midfielder brings the curtains down on a glittering career at the age of 36 after a final season playing for Italian side Como. The Spaniard will remain involved in the game, beginning his coaching career working with Como’s youth sides.
Fabregas said in a statement: ‘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.’
Early Career
After leaving the Barcelona youth academy, Fabregas made his Arsenal debut at the age of 16, helping the club win the FA Cup in his first season in the first-team as the Gunners edged past Manchester United on penalties at Wembley.
Fabregas replaced Patrick Vieira in the Arsenal XI as a teenager (Picture: Getty)
Return to Barcelona
After seven years in north London, captaining Arsenal for four of those, he returned to the Camp Nou where he won a Copa del Roey in 2012 and the Spanish title in 2013.
Fabregas joined Barcelona in 2011 to link up with Lionel Messi (Picture: Getty)
Chelsea and International Success
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A return to England beckoned in 2014, joining Chelsea where he won two Premier League titles and an FA Cup. At international level, Fabregas was part of the legendary Spain side that dominated international football for six years, winning the 2008 and 2012 European Championships and the 2010 World Cup. After leaving Chelsea in 2019, he spent two seasons in France with Monaco before joining Como in 2022.
He won three major international honours with Spain (Picture: Getty)
Conclusion
Fabregas bows out after a glittering club and international career (Picture: Getty) 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.’