Salford City has confirmed its retained and released list after missing out on promotion to League One, with former Liverpool and Chelsea striker Fabio Borini among nine players departing the club
Daniel Orme Trends Writer
12:16, 02 Jun 2026
Gary Neville's Salford City has released its retained list
Gary Neville's Salford City has released its retained list(Image: Getty Images)
Former Liverpool forward Fabio Borini is among nine players set to depart Salford City following the team's failure to secure promotion to League One.
The club, which is co-owned by Gary Neville and other Manchester United legends, has enjoyed a remarkable rise through the English soccer pyramid since the 'Class of 92' became involved at the Peninsula Stadium. Salford had a prime opportunity to continue that upward trajectory last month after reaching the League Two playoff final at Wembley.
However, Salford will remain in the fourth tier after Alassana Jatta, Lucas Ness and Jodi Jones all netted for Notts County in a commanding 3-0 victory.
Plans are now being drawn up for a renewed push for the promotion places next season. Salford confirmed its released and retained list on Monday, with Italian star Borini amongst those departing upon the expiry of his contract.
The former Liverpool and Chelsea forward only arrived at the League Two club in October as a free agent. He initially signed a short-term deal but was handed a contract until the end of the season after catching the eye with his performances.
In total, Borini made 33 appearances across all competitions for Salford, netting five goals. The 35-year-old will now seek a new club. His departure arrives merely weeks following Salford manager Karl Robinson's glowing assessment of his contributions to the club.
Former Liverpool star Fabio Borini is leaving Liverpool
Former Liverpool star Fabio Borini is leaving Liverpool(Image: Getty Images)
Speaking to Mirror Football, he said: "I think he scored a goal here in a cup game and he celebrated like he scored in the San Siro for AC Milan or the Olimpico for Roma or Liverpool or Chelsea.
"This person has had an incredible career and played up front with some mind-blowing strikers and has been brilliant for me.
"He embodies everything that we're trying to do. He's hard-working, relentless, and it's true to the identity of the city, and he's been impeccable all the way along that."
Borini began his professional career with Chelsea, making 8 first-team appearances.
He subsequently turned out for Swansea, Roma, Liverpool, Sunderland and AC Milan.
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Borini can additionally list Hellas Verona, Fatih Karagumruk and Sampdoria amongst his employers during the latter stages of his career. The striker also secured one cap for the Italian national side in 2012.
Beyond Borini's situation, Salford has confirmed that 13 players remain under contract past this summer, while it has secured fresh agreements with four individuals.
An additional six players have had their tenures with the club prolonged through clauses within their contracts.