Marco Verratti’s (30) 11-year stay at Paris Saint-Germain has come to an end. The Italian midfielder has joined Qatari side Al-Arabi.
Verratti has been a mainstay in PSG’s midfield for over a decade. Having arrived from Pescara in 2012, the ‘Little Owl’ went on to make 416 appearances for Les Parisiens, scoring 11 goals and registering 61 assists. However, whilst once again pivotal in PSG’s title-winning campaign last season, he was frozen out this summer. He was informed by Luis Campos and Luis Enrique that he was surplus to requirements.
The most intense interest has come from Qatar, where the transfer window remains open until 18th September. Verratti reportedly joins Al-Arabi in a deal worth €45m. In an official press release, PSG thanked Verratti for his service to the club., wishing him the best in his Qatari adventure.
Verratti, who didn’t feature in any of PSG’s fixtures this season, also addressed the PSG fans. “I was very proud to wear PSG’s colours for over a decade, to play alongside big players and to win 30 trophies. Paris, the club and its supporters will always have a special place in my heart. I will always be Parisian,” he said.
GFFN | Luke Entwistle
