Former Liverpool defender Joel Matip has announced his retirement from professional football.
Born in Germany but playing 27 times for Cameron, Matip came through the youth ranks at Schalke before making 258 senior appearances for the club between 2009 and 2016, winning the DFB-Pokal and DFL-Supercup titles.
The centre-back then moved to Liverpool on a free transfer. Despite his low-key arrival, Matip made 201 appearances for the Reds in one of the club’s most successful spells, winning the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and EFL Cup, among other honours.
During his time on Merseyside, Matip formed a brilliant partnership with Virgil van Dijk that was the cornerstone of Liverpool’s recent success.
Matip contract at Anfield expired at the end of last season, he left the club alongside legendary coach Jurgen Klopp.
“In a world of big transfer fees, signing a player like Joel Matip on a free transfer is incredible,” Klopp said in 2019 (via Sky Sports). “It may have been one of the best deals we’ve done in years.”
Former Liverpool defender Joel Matip announces his retirement
After short-lived rumors that he could return to the Premier League for a final swan song, with West Ham and Fulham linked – Matip confirmed his retirement in an Instagram post written in the third person.
“An incredible journey comes to an end. After years of rock-solid defence, unforgettable moments and true passion for the game, Joel Matip has decided to hang up his boots,” the post read.
“From high headers to cool calm at the back, Matip was always a class act on and off the pitch. Thanks for the memories, dedication and being an inspiration to us all. Forever a legend in our hearts”.
Among those to react to Matip’s post was Liverpool’s 2009-2024 goalkeeping coach John Achterberg.
He wrote: “Joel what a legend, respect your decision, great career!! YNWA, always a Liverpool FC legend.”
Top photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images
