Liverpool have announced the retirement of former centre-back Joel Matip, who left Anfield this summer when his contract expired.
Matip arrived on a free transfer in the summer of 2016 and made 201 appearances for Liverpool over eight injury-plagued years, establishing himself as a popular part of Jurgen Klopp’s side.
The centre-back was linked with a return to action with West Ham United this summer, while German side HSV were also tipped to make a move for Matip, although Ruhr Nachrichten reported earlier this week that he rejected the opportunity to speak with HSV because he considered himself retired.
Liverpool have now confirmed Matip’s decision, paying tribute to the 33-year-old in a lengthy message.
“Everyone at LFC wishes Joel and his family the best for the future,” the Reds concluded.
Matip was part of the Liverpool teams that won the Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League in 2020, while also adding an FA Cup, two League Cups, a UEFA Super Cup and a Community Shield to his trophy cabinet.
