Former West Brom Striker Saido Berahino Retires at 33

Berahino calls time on playing career

Former West Bromwich Albion and Stoke City forward Saido Berahino has announced his retirement from football at the age of 33. The striker revealed the decision in a statement posted to his Instagram account on Sunday.

Berahino first developed his talents in the youth setup at West Brom before making his senior debut for the club in 2012. His breakthrough year arrived in the 2014 and 2015 season. During that run, he scored 20 goals in all competitions, leading his side to a 13th place Premier League finish. His strong performances also earned him an England senior call up in 2014.

Reflecting on his early days, Berahino expressed his gratitude to the Baggies. He stated that the sport carried a young refugee kid through life, taking him from the streets of Bujumbura to the Hawthorns and into the Premier League. He added that he wanted to thank the club for believing in him when he was a boy, noting that the goals, the supporters, and the moments will always remain special.

Stoke transfer and coaching future

Berahino finished his career having made over 133 appearances in the Premier League. Most of those matches came while wearing a West Brom shirt. In 2017, he completed a move to Stoke City for a transfer fee of £12 million. His time there was difficult, resulting in five goals across 56 appearances.

After leaving Stoke, his career took him to several clubs abroad and in the lower leagues. He had spells with Zulte Waregem, Sheffield Wednesday, AEL Limassol, and Rajasthan United. Slovenian club Tabor Sezana ended up being the final team he played for.

On the international scene, Berahino played 18 times for Burundi. He is now stepping into a coaching position with the national team.

He explained that his body and his heart are ready for the next chapter. He said that he is proud to serve Burundi as a coach, adding that giving back to the country and helping the next generation feels right. He also thanked his family and supporters, stating that this is not goodbye to football, but simply the end of one story and the beginning of another.

What it means for the next game

Preston North End vs West Bromwich Albion (Championship, Sat, 24 Oct): Preston North End win 27%, draw 28%, West Bromwich Albion win 46%; expected goals 1.05 to 1.45. Our safest pick: Under 3.5 goals.