Joël Matip Rumored to be “Considering Retirement”
The former Cameroonian international left Liverpool at the end of his contract in 2023
Joël Matip was always a fan-favorite and a favorite of former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp as well, but after leaving the Reds last summer the defender has been unable to find a new club as a free agent.
Though his career was certainly interrupted with injuries, Matip showed himself to be a top class player whenever called on, and his skillset meant that he was often Klopp’s first choice to partner with Virgil van Dijk when fit — even if other options were available. His age and injury record, however, have likely made it challenging for Matip to find a new club, and though there have been many rumored connections the Cameroonian has nonetheless spent six months with no contract.
Matip had been most recently connected with a return to Schalke 04, his former club, before German outlet Ruhr Nachrichten, nixed “crazy rumors” and instead reported that the player is considering retirement.
Such a move — if Matip is still interested in playing at the top level — is certainly depressing. While his injury record would make him a risk to rely on as a first choice, Matip’s skillset is undeniable, and it seems remarkable that no club would be willing to put the defender on their books as a support for their own first choice defenders. Indeed, many of us would have been pleased with at least a short term deal keeping Matip at Liverpool to do just that, as the Reds are currently a bit lean in cover in that area; Klopp himself made it clear that Matip’s contract situation was not a decision he played a part in before leaving. If we are to mention his injury record, it is certainly equally important to note how immediately he was able to return to form following absence, making him an asset from the sidelines.
Matip spent eight years at Liverpool, during which time he won all there is to win at the top level of football while being a true asset in the dressing room. At present there has been no formal announcement of retirement bar the suggestions in the German publication, which did not cite the player directly — but should Matip make an announcement we hope his career is celebrated by Liverpool, Liverpool fans, and the wider football community. W
Source: liverpooloffside.sbnation.com
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