Fabio Borini Hangs Up Boots at 35

Fabio Borini, an Italian international and former player for Liverpool, Chelsea, and Milan, has ended his playing career at 35. His career also included spells at Roma, Sunderland, and Sampdoria.

Borini was once seen as a promising young talent with a bright future, though this potential was not fully realized.

He began his youth career at Bologna before joining Chelsea in 2007. He returned to Italy in 2011.

His career gained momentum at Roma, leading to a €13.3 million transfer to Liverpool in the summer of 2012. He made his sole senior appearance for Italy that same year.

Borini continued to play for Sunderland, Milan, and Hellas Verona. He concluded his career with Fatih Karagumruk in Turkey, Serie B club Sampdoria, and most recently, Salford.

His contract expired on June 30. Today, the 35-year-old announced his retirement with an emotional tribute to Chelsea, where his journey began.

Borini's Farewell Message

“It all began with a flight. Thank you, Chelsea. I was 16. I spent that entire flight in tears, starting a career journey with no specific destination, other than the dreams I wanted to achieve.

“From that day, I started building myself, not knowing what that kid with such a strong mindset would become. I began constructing my dreams in my mind, and somehow, I managed to make them my reality.

“This reality will change forever today. It’s the reality that has shaped my past, my present, and my future. Today, much like that day I boarded a plane to London, I feel the same emotions about what lies ahead.

Fear.
Happiness.
Courage.
Uncertainty.
Dreams.
Success.
Passion.
Sacrifice.

“I want to thank that kid who never stopped believing. The man I am today will continue to believe in the next chapter, this time without a ball at my feet, but with that same conviction. Always.

“THANK YOU. THANK YOU, FOOTBALL.”