Smalling bids farewell to Roma after five years: ‘An absolute honour’

Chris Smalling has said his farewells to his Roma colleagues and supporters as he embarks on a new journey in Saudi Arabia with Al-Fayha, leaving the Stadio Olimpico after five fond years.

The former England international completed a move to Al-Fayha on Monday night, on the final day of the window for Saudi Pro League clubs to sign players from foreign leagues.

He leaves Roma after five years, having scored 10 goals from 155 appearances in all competitions.

Smalling says goodbye to Roma

The pinnacle of Smalling’s Roma career came in the Europa Conference League final under Jose Mourinho, where he was awarded man of the match in the final of the competition’s first ever edition.

That is where his farewell message to the Roma supporters began.

“May 25th, 2022 – what a night. Lifting a European trophy as an AS Roma player, and as your Man of the Match. To say I was proud would be an understatement,” Smalling wrote on social media.

“The noise and the passion felt from the fans that night was indescribable. In fact, I’m convinced there is no fan base in the world that could match the energy we felt.

“It has been an absolute privilege to experience that passion and support week-in week-out for the last 5 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.

“As 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.

“To the players I have played alongside, the coaches I have worked under, the backroom staff who often go unrecognised, and to you, the fans, GRAZIE MILLE, it has been an absolute honour. Good luck with the remainder of the season.

“Until we meet again, FORZA ROMA.”