Former Liverpool defender Joel Matip has introduced his retirement from skilled soccer.
Born in Germany however capped 27 occasions for Cameron, Matip got here by the youth ranks at Schalke earlier than making 258 senior appearances for the membership between 2009 and 2016, profitable DFB-Pokal and DFL-Supercup titles.
The centre-back then made a transfer to Liverpool a free switch. Regardless of his understated arrival, Matip went on to make 201 appearances for the Reds in one of many membership’s most profitable durations, lifting Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and EFL Cup titles amongst different honours.
Throughout his time on Merseyside, Matip fashioned an excellent partnership with Virgil van Dijk that was the cornerstone of Liverpool’s current success.
Matip’s contract at Anfield expired on the finish of final season, departing the membership alongside legendary supervisor Jurgen Klopp.
“In a world of huge switch charges, to signal a participant like Joel Matip on a free switch is unbelievable,” mentioned Klopp again in 2019 (through Sky Sports activities). “It was possibly among the finest items of enterprise we did in the previous couple of years.”
Former Liverpool defender Joel Matip pronounces retirement
After short-lived rumours that he may return to the Premier League for one final swansong — with West Ham and Fulham linked — Matip confirmed his retirement in an Instagram submit written within the third individual.
“An unbelievable journey involves an finish. After years of rock-solid defence, unforgettable moments, and true ardour for the sport, Joel Matip has determined to hold up his boots,” the submit learn.
“From towering headers to ice-cool composure on the again, Matip was all the time a category act on and off the pitch. Thanks for the reminiscences, the dedication, and being an inspiration to us all. Endlessly a legend in our hearts.”
Amongst these to react to Matip’s submit was Liverpool’s 2009-2024 goalkeeping coach John Achterberg.
He wrote: “Joel what a legend, respect your choice, nice profession!! YNWA, all the time a Liverpool FC legend.”
Prime picture by Matt McNulty/Getty Pictures
