Former Liverpool striker Divock Origi has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 31. The Belgian forward, who scored 41 goals in 175 appearances for the Reds, made the announcement via an emotional statement on social media.
A Liverpool Hero's Journey
Origi agreed to join Liverpool in the summer of 2014 from Lille, though he remained with the French club on loan for a further season. During his spell at Anfield, he was limited to just 68 starts but made a lasting impact with unforgettable goals. Among his 41 strikes were six derby goals against Everton, a brace in the Champions League semi-final comeback against Barcelona in 2019, and a goal in the subsequent final against Tottenham.
Later Career and Retirement
Upon the expiry of his Liverpool contract in 2022, Origi joined AC Milan on a free transfer. However, his time at the San Siro was torrid, with only 36 senior appearances and two goals before departing in December. He also had spells at Wolfsburg and Nottingham Forest, and earned 32 caps for Belgium, scoring three times. Despite being just 31, he has chosen to hang up his boots.
In his 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 added: "To my fans across the world who helped me shine: every iconic moment, every goal, every piece of history we made together will forever be ours."
Farewell and Legacy
Origi was adored by Liverpool supporters, and speaking after his final appearance at Anfield, he said: "Honestly, I feel honoured. It was an honour to be able to play here in Anfield with team-mates, with staff [and] with the fans – it's been an honour." He added: "You have to experience Liverpool. Before I came here, they told me it's a special club and once you sign here, you experience it."
Jurgen Klopp hailed Origi as a "Liverpool legend" in the build-up to his farewell, remarking: "He is, and will be for me, forever a Liverpool legend [and] one of the most important players I ever had." Klopp continued: "That sounds completely strange with the amount of games he had, but it is, and was, a pure joy to work together with him."
Origi concluded his statement: "The mission is complete. Now I step into my next calling. More of the journey to come... With love, Divock Origi."
