Legendary Roma forward Stephan El Sharaawy officially returns to Genoa on a free transfer..

Genoa announced on their official website on Thursday that Roma's former legendary Italy international forward Stefan El Shaarawy, has returned to the club as a free agent.

According to Genoa's official statement, El Shaarawy has signed on a short-term one-year deal with the club which will only run until the summer of 2027. He will also wear the number 92 jersey.

After completing his transfer procedures, El Shaarawy, who was interviewed by the Genoa official website again after many years, said: "At Genoa, I experienced the initial joy and passion of my professional career. Wearing this jersey again feels like a complete cycle."

"Returning home makes my family and I incredibly proud: Genoa is in our blood, and the desire to fight for this jersey and these fans is my strongest motivation. Come on, Il Griffone!"

About Stefan El Shaarawy

The 33-year-old El Shaarawy, nicknamed "El Pharaoh," was born on October 27, 1992, in Savona, Italy. He is 1.78 meters tall and primarily plays as a left winger, but can also play as a center forward or attacking midfielder. He holds dual Italian and Egyptian citizenship.

El Shaarawy joined Genoa's youth academy at the age of 14 and made his first-team debut in December 2008 at the age of 16, becoming the 8th youngest player to debut in Serie A history. 

In the summer of 2010, El Shaarawy was loaned-out to Padova. During his time there, he helped the club reach the Serie B promotion play-offs final and won the Serie B Player of the Year award.

The following July, El Shaarawy joined AC Milan for €10 million.

During his four-year spell with I Rossoneri, El Shaarawy received numerous praises for his outstanding performances.

In the latter half of 2015, El Shaarawy played successively on-loan at Monaco and Roma.

The following July, Roma triggered El Shaarawy's buy-out clause for €13 million.

In July 2019, El Shaarawy joined Shanghai Shenhua for €16 million.

On the 2021 winter transfer window deadline day, El Shaarawy returned to Roma as a free agent.

During his time with I Giallorossi, El Shaarawy made 348 appearances for the Serie A powerhouse in all competitions, scored 66 goals and provided 50 assists, and winning the UEFA Conference League once.

Image source: Internet / Genoa official website