PSG's tiny Italian gem joins Qatar runners-up

Experienced Italian midfielder Marco Verratti has left Paris Saint-Germain to join Qatari side Al-Arabi SC, the Asian club announced on Wednesday night.

Verratti has signed a three-year deal with the Qatar Stars League club, who have paid a reported €45 million for the 30-year-old.

"I was very proud to wear the colours of PSG for more than a decade, to rub shoulders with so many great players, and to win 30 trophies," Verratti told PSG's website.

"Paris, the Club and the supporters will always have a very special place in my heart. I will be Parisian forever."

Verratti joined PSG in 2012 from his hometown club Pescara. The Ligue 1 side paid €12m for the then 19-year-old. In 11 seasons at Parc des Princes, Verratti made 416 appearances, making him the second in club's history.

During that period, he won nine league titles, and both the Coupe de France and the Coupe de la Ligue six times.

However, Verratti has not been part of new boss Luis Enrique's plans following the recent departures of Lionel Messi, Neymar and Mauro Icardi.

"Marco will forever be linked to Paris Saint-Germain," said the club's president Nasser Al-Khelaifi.

"He has always been there for the Club, giving his whole heart on the pitch and achieving so many great things with us."

Al-Arabi SC finished runners up to Al-Duhail in last season's Qatar Stars League and have started this season with three draws.