After ten years, Stephan El Shaarawy will leave Roma.
His contract will not be renewed, and the player himself announced the news in an emotional video posted on his social media, accompanied by a long farewell message of love.
“There are places that become home without you realizing it,” the message begins. “And then, one day, you realize it was so much more… it was people, emotions, life. For me, these 10 years have been all of this. I came here with dreams, ambitions, and a strong desire to prove myself. I leave with a full heart. Full of memories, of shared battles, of immense joys, but also of difficult moments that have helped me grow, on and off the pitch.”
“In this environment, I’ve found true affection, sincere respect, and a sense of belonging that goes beyond football,” he continues. “I’ve always tried to honor this jersey in the most authentic way possible, giving my all, every single day, never holding back.”
“We’ve written important chapters together, experiencing emotions that will remain indelible, like winning an international trophy that brought us even closer and that I will always carry within me.”
El Shaarawy on wearing the captain’s armband: “As time went by, the responsibilities grew, and wearing the captain’s armband was much more than a role: it was an immense honor and one of the greatest expressions of respect I could have received. A privilege I will always carry in my heart. Like all stories, this one had a beginning, and today it’s nearing its end. It’s been a special year, difficult in parts, but that’s part of football and doesn’t change who I am and what I’ve always given.”
The ‘Pharaoh’s’ farewell will be celebrated in the derby: “The derby will be my last home game at the Olimpico. And there’s no better match than this to show everything I’ve always looked for in this game: commitment, respect, and dedication to this shirt, but above all, my gratitude.” Finally, the thanks: “Thank you to the club, which gave me the opportunity to grow as a man and a footballer. Thank you to my teammates, with whom I shared every emotion. Thank you to the staff, for your hard work and daily support.”
“And a special thank you to you, the fans… because you made me feel like one of you, always. I’m leaving, but a part of me will remain here. Because some stories never truly end, they just change shape. I will forever be grateful to this club and especially to this city, which has given me so much. Thank you, Rome.”
