Former Barcelona and Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas has announced his retirement from football.

Fabregas made the announcement via a statement he posted on his Twitter page.

In his statement, he said: 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, and the Euros, to winning everything in England and Spain and nearly all the European trophies, it has been a journey that Ill 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. Ive also learnt three languages and become more compassionate and wiser along my travels. I lived experiences that I never thought in a million years I would even come close to, he added.

Fabregas disclosed that he is planning to start a new chapter in football by going into coaching. (The PUNCH)