Official: El Shaarawy makes Roma return

Robin Bairner

• Updated: 19 May 2021 16:09 BST
• 2 min read

Stephan El Shaarawy has re-signed for Roma, the Serie A club has confirmed.

Italy international striker El Shaarawy, who turned out for Roma from 2016-19, will wear the No.92 shirt at the Stadio Olimpico.

He had been a free agent following his departure from Chinese Super League side Shanghai Shenhua.

“When I arrived in Rome the first time I realised how little time it takes for this club and this city to make a deep impression on you,” El Shaarawy told the Serie A side’s website.

“When I left, I quickly realised that both would always be in my heart. Now I cannot wait to be once again representing this club and these colours.”

Tiago Pinto, Roma’s general manager, said: “Everyone knows the quality El Shaarawy has, but few are aware of the full extent of his desire to come back and wear the Roma shirt once more – and it is that desire and belief in our project that made all the difference.

“Today we are delighted to welcome him back to the club once again.”

El Shaarawy started his career with Genoa but Milan were quick to realise his potential and he soon switch to the San Siro club.

The 2012/13 campaign proved to be a breakout season for the young forward as he netted 16 times in 37 outings. Thereafter, injury badly stalled his progress and a loan move to Ligue 1 side Monaco proved to be fruitless.

El Shaarawy rediscovered something like his best level when he moved to Roma in 2016, and in his first spell with the club he would score 40 goals in 139 outings.

Both Roma and El Shaarawy will be hoping for an equally productive second spell as the forward returns to Serie A.