SpotlightBBC SportUnverified source· 6 Aug 2026
Smalling: From non-league to 580 games, now plotting next move
Chris Smalling's unique path includes genetics testing and a return home to find a new club.
C. Smalling
player
Age
36
Career
580 club appearances in three countries
England caps
31
Last club
Al-Fayha
What happened. Chris Smalling is back in the north west of England with his family, focusing on finding a new club after leaving Al-Fayha.
- Smalling was ever-present for Al-Fayha last season.
- He had genetics testing that changed his supplements.
- He played under Sir Alex Ferguson and Jose Mourinho.
“I know my body now better than when I was 26 and that's shown in the games I'm playing.”
— Chris Smalling
Smalling plans for life after playing but is still passionate about football and seeking a new club.
In this story
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