News Focus
- The 31-year-old forward ends his professional career after terminating his AC Milan contract in December
- Origi scored decisive goals in Liverpool’s 2019 Champions League triumph in Madrid
- He is the son of former Harambee Stars striker Mike Okoth and represented Belgium at the 2014 World Cup
- The striker hints at a new chapter but keeps his future plans private
Belgian forward Divock Origi has retired from professional football. The 31-year-old announced his decision on Monday through social media posts.
Origi explained that he has achieved his dreams in the sport. He thanked God for the chance to play on big stages and win major trophies.
The striker has Kenyan roots through his father, Mike Okoth. Mike Okoth was a famous striker for the Harambee Stars. Origi’s uncle, Arnold Origi, also played for Kenya as a goalkeeper. Although Kenya wanted him to play for the national team, Origi chose to play for Belgium instead.
Origi started his career at Lille in France. He scored important goals there before the 2014 World Cup. He became the first player with Kenyan roots to play in the World Cup. He represented Belgium in Brazil and scored a late goal against Russia.
Liverpool signed him in July 2014. He spent eight years at the club and scored 22 goals. Fans remember him for scoring in big matches. He scored two goals against Barcelona in the 2019 Champions League semi-final. Liverpool won that match after losing the first leg. He also scored in the final against Tottenham to help Liverpool win the trophy.
After leaving Liverpool in 2022, Origi joined AC Milan in Italy. He did not play many matches there. He went on loan to Nottingham Forest but still had few chances. He returned to Milan but left the club in December last year after ending his contract.
Origi says his mission is now complete. He thanked his fans, clubs, team-mates and family. He said he will start a new career but did not give details.
Many Kenyan football supporters hope he will return to help football grow in Kenya. His father was a star player for the national team in the past.