Former Cameroon and Liverpool defender Joël Matip has called time on his illustrious career spanning over two decades at age 33 after being unable to shake off an ACL injury.
The German-born lanky centre-back joined the Anfield side on a free transfer from FC Shalke 04 in 2016, going on to enjoy a successful eight-year trophy laden career under Jürgen Klopp.
Matip initally left the Reds when his contract at the club came to a close at the end of last season, with his former English Premier League outfit also paying tribute to him via a statement.
“Matip and supporters said farewell to one another at Anfield on the final day of last season, ahead of the expiry of his contract, and he has now confirmed that his playing career has reached a conclusion,” Liverpool said in the statement.
During his spell at the Kop, Matip won the UEFA Champions League in 2019 and Premier League title in 2020, as well as the FA Cup and two league cups.
The last time he featured for Liverpool was against Sheffield United last year, the match in which he suffered an ACL injury.
At international level, Matip made 27 appearances for Cameroon, featuring for them at the 2010 and 2014 FIFA World Cups.
