News Focus
- Belgian striker Divock Origi announces retirement from professional football at age 31
- Former Liverpool forward won the Champions League and Premier League during his six years at the club
- Scored iconic goals against Barcelona and in the 2019 Champions League final against Tottenham
- Also played for AC Milan, Nottingham Forest and represented the Belgium national team
Belgian striker Divock Origi has ended his professional football career at the age of 31. The forward confirmed his retirement on Friday, drawing the curtain on a journey that brought him legendary status at Liverpool FC.
Origi joined the Reds in 2014 and remained at the club until 2022. During his time at Anfield, he netted 41 times in 175 outings. Supporters will always remember his goals in the biggest matches.
The Belgian played a crucial role in Liverpool’s 2019 Champions League success. He scored twice in the semi-final comeback against FC Barcelona at Anfield. He also found the net in the final victory over Tottenham Hotspur in Madrid. Additionally, he grabbed a last-gasp winner against Everton in the league, striking in the 96th minute. He scored six goals against the Toffees in total.
Jurgen Klopp, the former Liverpool manager, described Origi as a club legend. The German praised the striker’s impact during their time together.
“Klopp believed in me from the start,” Origi explained. “He gave me confidence from day one. We won major trophies together, but he also helped me grow as a person.”
Origi collected five honours with Liverpool. These include European glory, the English league title, the FA Cup, the UEFA Super Cup and world club success.
After departing Merseyside in 2022, the forward had spells at AC Milan and Nottingham Forest. His final professional appearance came in 2024.
The Belgian now plans to enter the fashion industry. He will also work with the football agency DLF Sports and study business.
“I am proud of my career,” Origi stated. “The game shaped me as a person. I gave my all in every match and I have no regrets.”
He hopes fans remember him as a player who stayed true to himself throughout his time in football.