Essendon has wasted no time in their end-of-season clean out, telling veteran David Zaharakis his time at the club has come to an end.

The 31-year-old has played 226 games since his debut back in 2009 against Fremantle.

Zaharakis, who said it was “boyhood dream” to play for the Bombers, confirmed he would look for another club to revive his AFL career.

“I leave the club knowing I gave it my all ... It’s been a surreal ride but one I will forever look back on so fondly,” he said.

“We had really transparent discussions with the club in recent months, and now I’m looking forward to seeing what the future holds. I’m hopeful to continue my AFL career elsewhere as I still feel I have a lot to offer.”

Bombers coach Ben Rutten praised Zaharakis for his understanding of decision, stating he would always be “part of the Essendon family”.

“We’ve had open and transparent discussions about our list profile with both David and his management, and to David’s credit, he understood the decision but is keen to explore his options to extend his AFL career elsewhere,” Rutten said.

Zaharakis was awarded life membership at the club back in 2017 after being snapped up by Essendon as pick 23 in the 2008 draft.

But he has managed just 19 games in two seasons due to injury.