End of an era! Former Liverpool and Chelsea striker Fabio Borini retires at 35

A familiar face from some of Europe's biggest clubs has called time on his playing career. Fabio Borini, the striker who wore the shirts of Chelsea, Liverpool, Roma and AC Milan, has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 35.

Details: Borini confirmed the news in an emotional post on social media on Wednesday evening, following the expiration of his contract with League Two side Salford City on June 30. The Italian, who registered 163 goal contributions in 441 career appearances, began his journey in the Bologna youth academy before Chelsea snapped him up at just 16 years old. His career truly took off at Roma, earning him a €13.3 million move to Liverpool in the summer of 2012, the same year he made his one and only senior appearance for Italy.

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Borini's career was a true footballing odyssey. After his big-money move to Anfield, he spent a season on loan at Sunderland before joining the Black Cats permanently in 2015. His journey then took him to AC Milan, Hellas Verona, and a prolific spell in Turkey with Fatih Karagümrük, where he scored 31 goals in 71 appearances. He returned to Italy with Sampdoria before finishing his career in England's fourth tier with Salford City. In his farewell message, Borini reflected on his journey with characteristic passion: "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. 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."

It's worth noting that Borini's trophy cabinet includes a Premier League title and an FA Cup, both won during his time at Chelsea in 2010. He was also part of the Italy squad that reached the final of Euro 2012, though he did not feature in the tournament. His parting words strongly suggest a desire to remain involved in football in a non-playing capacity, with coaching, punditry, or a boardroom role all potential next steps as he embraces the next chapter of his life.

Reminder: Former Liverpool and Chelsea striker Fabio Borini retires at 35.