Following Thiago Alcântara, Liverpool have confirmed that defender Joel Matip will also leave the club at the end of the season. Both players are set to depart along with manager Jürgen Klopp, who will also leave at the end of the season.
Matip joined the Reds in 2016 from Schalke 04 and was one of Klopp’s first signings. He made 201 appearances and won seven major trophies, including the Premier League and the Champions League.
The Cameroonian has played very little this season due to injury and will begin a new chapter this summer. “I had eight wonderful years here at Liverpool,” he said.
“I had the opportunity to be part of an exciting journey with a great manager and a fantastic team at an extraordinary club. We won major titles and have the best fans in the world. I am very grateful for the wonderful moments I experienced with these unique people who support the club and with the fans who love Liverpool FC,” he added.
Klopp also commented on the Spanish international’s departure at the end of the season.
“Even before he came to Liverpool, I thought that if you really loved football, you would do well to watch Thiago Alcântara play,” he said.
“I know injuries have been a source of frustration for him and for us, but the level he was able to play at when he was available was incredible. That is what I will remember. Now, he is moving on to a new path with his family, and we can only wish them well. Wherever he plays next, I will be happy to see him. An artist of the game who will only paint the most beautiful pictures.”