Veteran Italy midfielder Marco Verratti has signed for Qatari side Al-Arabi, ending his 11-year stay at Paris St Germain.
Verratti, who turns 31 in November, signed for PSG from Serie B outfit Pescara during the summer of 2012.
The midfielder went on to win the Ligue 1 title nine times while also helping the French club reach the final of the interrupted 2019–20 Champions League, where they were beaten by Bayern Munich.
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_English)
Verratti, part of Italy’s successful Euro 2020 side, had also been linked with a potential move to Saudi Arabia, with his transfer fee to Al-Arabi reported to be in the region of 45million euro (£38.6m).
“I’ve been very proud to play for Paris Saint-Germain for over a decade, to rub shoulders with so many great players and to win 30 trophies,” said Verratti, who made 416 appearances for PSG, the second-highest total in the club’s history.
“Paris, the club and its fans will always hold a very special place in my heart. I’ll forever be a Parisian.”
HERE WE GO!
— Al-Arabi Sports Club (@alarabi_club)
PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi added: “Marco will be forever linked to Paris Saint-Germain, playing such a big part in our great history.
“He will always be part of the club. We wish him all the very best with his new adventure.”
