Former World Cup champion Cesc Fabregas retired from football on Saturday at the age of 36.

"It is with great sadness that the time has come for me to hang up my playing boots," Fabregas said on Twitter.

"From my first days at Barca, Arsenal, Barca again, Chelsea, Monaco and Como, I will treasure them all. From lifting the World Cup, the Euros, to winning everything in England and Spain and nearly all the European trophies, it has been a journey that I'll never forget," added the Spanish central midfielder

A Barcelona product, Fabregas played for England's Arsenal and Chelsea, as well as Barca's senior team.

He last played for Italy's Como after his Monaco days.

Fabregas said he had "great memories and friends" during the years he played, during which he said he also learned three languages.

"So after 20 incredible years full of sacrifice, dedication and joy, it’s time to say thank you and goodbye to the beautiful game. I loved every minute."

Fabregas won the English Premier League title twice with Chelsea in 2015 and 2017, along with a UEFA Europa League title.

He helped Barcelona secure the Spanish La Liga title in 2013 before his move to Chelsea.

During his time with Arsenal from 2004 to 2011, he won an English FA Cup.

Fabregas helped his native Spain win the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, and two European Championships (EURO) in 2008 and 2012.

He will start coaching Italian Serie B club Como's B and youth teams.