Former Liverpool forward Divock Origi has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 31. The Belgian striker, who etched his name into Anfield folklore with crucial goals, including the clinching strike in the 2019 Champions League final, confirmed his decision via social media.
An Anfield Icon
Origi initially agreed to join Liverpool in the summer of 2014 from Lille but remained with the French club on loan for an additional season. During his time at Anfield, he made 175 appearances, starting only 68 of those matches. Despite limited game time, he scored 41 goals, many of which were unforgettable. These included six goals in Merseyside derbies against Everton, a brace in the famous Champions League semi-final comeback against Barcelona in 2019, and the decisive goal in the final against Tottenham Hotspur.
Post-Liverpool Career
After leaving Liverpool on a free transfer in 2022, Origi joined AC Milan but struggled at the San Siro, making only 36 senior appearances and scoring twice before departing in December. He also had spells with Wolfsburg and Nottingham Forest. Internationally, he earned 32 caps for Belgium, scoring three goals.
Retirement Announcement
In his retirement statement, Origi wrote: "My purpose in the game as a player is fulfilled. I lived out my childhood dreams to play on the biggest stages and win the biggest trophies. I am grateful to God for all of it." He expressed gratitude to fans, clubs, coaches, teammates, and family, adding: "The mission is complete. Now I step into my next calling."
Liverpool Legacy
Origi was adored by Liverpool supporters. Speaking after his final match at Anfield, he said: "Honestly, I feel honoured. It was an honour to be able to play here in Anfield with teammates, with staff and with the fans – it’s been an honour." He described Liverpool as a special club that goes beyond words and vowed to return as a fan.
Former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp hailed Origi as a "Liverpool legend" ahead of his departure, stating: "He is, and will be for me, forever a Liverpool legend, one of the most important players I ever had. That sounds completely strange with the amount of games he had, but it is, and was, a pure joy to work together with him." Klopp recalled Origi's important goals, injuries, and ups and downs, emphasizing his status as a club legend.
