Smalling posts farewell message to Man United
Chris Smalling has bid a touching farewell to Manchester United and the club's many fans, after completing a move to Roma just before the Italian transfer deadline.
The defender used his Twitter and Instagram channels on Tuesday morning (6 October) and, in a series of posts, expressed his delight at a Reds career that spanned more than a decade.
The 30-year-old said he would leave the club as a better person, after an impressive stint in M16 that delivered every major domestic trophy, plus the Europa League.
Smalling departs United
ArticleThe long-serving defender has sealed a permanent move to Serie A side Roma.
“It all began in July 2010, and now 10 years, 323 appearances, 2 titles, and 6 cups later, it has come to an end,” wrote Chris.
“Utd is a special place, and we achieved special things together, something I am beyond proud about. An unrivalled culture, where winning is not a want it is a need.”
It all began in July 2010, and now 10 years, 323 appearances, 2 titles, and 6 cups later it has come to an end.
— Chris Smalling (@ChrisSmalling) October 6, 2020
Utd is a special place, and we achieved special things together, something I am beyond proud about. An unrivalled culture, where winning is not a want it is a need. pic.twitter.com/YGtT2O8oDq
Smalling was a constant throughout the club's many changes following the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013, and became a respected figure in the dressing room that he had joined in 2010 as an inexperienced young centre-back from Fulham.
His 323 appearances came under six different managers, underlining his longevity: Jose Mourinho (100), Sir Alex Ferguson (85), Louis van Gaal (84), David Moyes (36), Ole Gunnar Solskjaer (16) and Ryan Giggs (two).
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“I leave not only a better player, but a better person, with Utd forever in my DNA,” continued Smalling.
“For that, I have to thank all the staff, everyone connected to the club, and you, the fans. Nothing surer [than that] you will continue to greatness. CS.”
Smalling joined Serie A giants Roma on loan last August, and soon established himself as one of the Italian top-flight's outstanding defenders during 2019/20.
After returning to United this summer, a permanent deal to take him back to the Stadio Olimpico was finalised on the last day of the transfer window, confirming the Londoner as a long-term Giallorossi player.
“I arrived [at Roma] last summer, and although temporary at the time, I knew instantly it would be my permanent home," explained Smalling. "[I] cannot wait to get started again, the journey continues, enjoy the ride!”
Everybody at United would like to thank Chris for his sterling service and wish him the very best of luck with his future career.
Everybody at United would like to thank Chris for his sterling service and wish him the very best of luck with his future career.
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