Official: Former Manchester United star leaves Serie A for Saudi Arabia

Former Manchester United and England defender Chris Smalling has left Serie A club AS Roma to embark on a new chapter in his career with Saudi Pro League side Al-Fayha, Soccernet.football reports.

The 34-year-old centre-back departs Rome after a successful five-year stint, during which he became a key figure in the Giallorossi’s defence.

Smalling began his professional journey at Maidstone United before earning a move to Fulham in 2008.

His performances caught the attention of Manchester United, and in January 2010, he signed a pre-contract agreement with the Premier League giants.

Officially joining them later that year, Smalling made an immediate impact by winning his first medal in the FA Community Shield against Chelsea.

Over his time at Old Trafford, he made over 300 appearances, helping United to secure two Premier League titles, an FA Cup, a League Cup, a UEFA Europa League, and two additional Community Shields.

In 2019, Smalling made a significant move to AS Roma, initially on loan, before making the transfer permanent.

His time in the Italian capital was marked by consistent performances and leadership at the heart of the defence. Smalling was notably named Man of the Match in the UEFA Europa Conference League final in 2022, where Roma secured a 1-0 victory over Feyenoord under Jose Mourinho.

Upon leaving Roma, the club announced, “AS Roma can confirm that Chris Smalling has joined Al-Fayha on a permanent deal.”

The English defender made 155 appearances for the Giallorossi, scoring ten goals and playing a pivotal role in their Conference League triumph.

Expressing his gratitude to the Roma supporters, Smalling shared an emotional farewell on social media: “It has been an absolute privilege to experience that passion and support week-in, week-out for the last five seasons. On arriving in Rome in 2019, my family and I were greeted with kindness and warmth.

“You immediately made Rome feel like home. With the birth of my son, the city will forever hold a special place in my heart. All great chapters come to an end, it is now time for me to say goodbye. My love and admiration for AS Roma will live on forever.”

Smalling’s move to Al-Fayha marks a new adventure in the Middle East, where he has signed a two-year deal with the Saudi Arabian side.