Former Arsenal and Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas has announced his retirement from football.

The 36-year-old played last season in Italy for Serie B side Como, making 17 appearances, but has ended his two-year contract with the club 12 months early to walk away from his playing career with immediate effect.

On the international stage Fabregas earned 110 caps for Spain, lifting the World Cup in 2010 after providing the assist fro Andres Iniesta’s winner in the final, as well as winning the European Championship in 2008 and 2012.

Fabregas made his Arsenal debut as a 16-year-old in 2003, spending eight years in north London before making the move back to Barcelona. He returned to England in 2014 to join Chelsea, winning the Premier League twice in a Blues shirt.

“It is with great sadness that the time has come for me to hang up my playing boots,” Fabregas wrote on social media.

“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.”

Fabregas spent time back at Arsenal last season, working with the club’s academy staff and spending time with U18s head coach Jack Wilshere. The Spaniard confirmed that he will remain at Como to continue his coaching career with the club’s B team and youth ranks.

“It’s not all sadness though as I’m now going to cross the white line and start coaching the B and Primavera teams of Como 1907,” Fabregas continued.

“A club and a project I couldn’t be more excited about. This charming football team won my heart from the first minute and came to me at the perfect time in my career. I will grab it with both hands.

“So after 20 incredible years full of sacrifice, dedication and joy, it’s time to say thank you and goodbye to the beautiful game.”