Morocco’s Adel Taarabt calls time on professional football at 37

Adel Taarabt has brought the curtain down on a professional career that took him from France to England, Italy, Portugal, the Middle East and the Moroccan national team, announcing his retirement at the age of 37.

The former AC Milan and Genoa playmaker confirmed his decision in an emotional letter published on his official Instagram profile, bringing an end to a journey that saw him represent a long list of clubs and establish himself as one of Morocco’s most recognisable footballers of his generation.

Taarabt closes the chapter

Taarabt admitted that retirement was a moment he had long known would eventually arrive, but said football had given him experiences that would remain with him for life.

“I knew this day would come: the time has come to close this chapter. Football has been such an important part of my life for so many years. It has given me wonderful memories, allowed me to meet incredible people and experience moments that I will never forget.”

The Moroccan reflected on the people who shaped his career, expressing gratitude to the coaches, teammates, staff and supporters he encountered throughout his professional journey.

“I just want to say thank you to every team I played for, every coach, every teammate, every member of staff and, of course, every fan who showed me affection throughout this journey,” he wrote.

From Lens to Sharjah

Taarabt began his senior career at Lens before moving to Tottenham Hotspur, where his flair and creativity quickly attracted attention. He later played for Queens Park Rangers, Fulham, Benfica, AC Milan, Genoa and other clubs before continuing his career in the Middle East.

Looking back at the breadth of his career, Taarabt singled out the numerous clubs that gave him the opportunity to play professionally.

“To all the teams I had the honour of representing, from Lens to Sharjah, thank you for being part of my story.”

His career was defined by technical ability, dribbling and an unpredictable style that made him a popular figure among supporters. Despite periods of inconsistency and difficult spells, he enjoyed notable moments across several European leagues.

Morocco gets special mention

Taarabt reserved his most personal tribute for Morocco, the country he represented internationally.

The midfielder earned 30 caps for the Atlas Lions and scored four goals, although his international career was also marked by difficult periods and controversy.

“Representing Morocco will always have a special place in my heart. There were good moments, difficult moments, mistakes, fantastic nights… everything. But this was my journey, and I wouldn’t change it for anything in the world.”

At 37, Taarabt now leaves professional football behind, ending a career that began with promise in France and took him through some of Europe’s biggest leagues before his final years in the Middle East.