Divock Origi quits football at 31

Divock Origi, a fan favorite from Liverpool, has said he is retiring from football at the age of 31.

The former Belgium striker made his mark with Liverpool, who have won the European Cup six times, in 2019.

He scored two goals in a stunning 4-0 comeback against Barcelona in the Champions League semi-final after Liverpool lost the first leg 3-0. He also scored in the final match against Tottenham Hotspur.

Origi had great moments in the Merseyside derby, netting six goals against Everton. One of his best moments was a last-minute goal at Anfield that made Liverpool's coach, Jurgen Klopp, rush onto the pitch in joy.

Overall, Origi scored 41 goals in 175 matches for Liverpool, starting in just 68 of those games.

Origi started his career at Lille and won the Premier League with Liverpool in 2020. He then moved to AC Milan on a free transfer two years later. In 2024, he returned to England for a loan at Nottingham Forest for one season.

“My purpose in the game as a player is fulfilled,” Origi wrote in a social media post on Monday after ending his contract with Milan in December.

“I lived out my childhood dreams to play on the biggest stages and win the biggest trophies. I am grateful to God for all of it.

“To my fans across the world who helped me shine: every iconic moment, every goal, every piece of history we made together will forever be ours.

“To every club, and all the coaches and teammates who stood beside me, thank you. You shaped me in ways that go far beyond the pitch.

“The mission is complete. Now I step into my next calling. More of the journey to come. With love, Divock Origi.