Liverpool have now officially announced that two of their biggest stars will be leaving the club at the end of the season.
The Reds have confirmed that midfielder Thiago Alcantara and defender Joel Matip will leave Anfield when their contracts expire at the end of June.
Thiago Alcantara's time with the Reds will come to an end this summer upon the expiration of his contract.
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) May 17, 2024
A truly special player. Thank you for everything, Thiago ??
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The Italian-born Spanish midfielder arrived in Merseyside in September 2020 from Bayern Munich in a deal worth €22 million (R434 million). In almost four years with the Reds, Thiago has made 98 appearances to date, which is indicative of his injury record.
According to Transfermarkt, the 33-year-old has missed a staggering 129 matches through injury since joining Liverpool.
"I know injuries have been a frustration for him and also for us but the level that he was able to play at when he was available was incredible. This is what I will remember," said manager Jurgen Klopp, according to Liverpool.com.
"Now he will go in a new direction with his family and we can only wish them well. Wherever he plays next I would be happy to watch. An artist of the game who will only ever paint the most beautiful pictures."
Get the latest soccer news and be ahead of the game. Follow our WhatsApp Channel via this link!"I am full of gratitude for the wonderful time I was able to experience with these unique people supporting the club and the fans who love Liverpool FC."
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) May 17, 2024
Joel Matip describes a wonderful eight years with the Reds ????
Meanwhile, Matip joined the club in July 2016 on a free transfer after he parted ways with his boyhood team FC Schalke 04. Since then, he has won seven trophies in 201 appearances, including the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League titles.
Reflecting on his time at the club, the German-born Cameroonian said: "It has been eight wonderful years here in Liverpool.
"I was allowed to be part of an exciting history with a great coach and an astonishing team in an extraordinary club. We have achieved great titles and have the best fans in the world.
"I am full of gratitude for the wonderful time I was able to experience with these unique people supporting the club and the fans who love Liverpool FC.
"My wife and I have felt welcomed and supported from day one and together with the kids we had the best imaginable time here.
"We will always keep it in special memories."
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