Why Liverpool star striker Divock Origi is retiring from football

Former Liverpool striker Divock Origi is retiring from professional football at the age of 31, bringing to an end a career that produced some of the club's most memorable moments.

In a heartfelt social media post, the Belgian said he felt his journey as a player had reached its natural conclusion, thanking supporters, teammates, coaches and family for their support throughout his career.

Origi said he had fulfilled his childhood dream of playing on the biggest stages and winning major trophies, while also acknowledging his experiences with Belgium's national team and his Kenyan roots.

"My purpose in the game as a player is fulfilled," he wrote, adding that he is looking forward to the next chapter of his life.

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Although he was rarely a regular starter at Liverpool, Origi carved out a special place in the club's history through a series of decisive contributions.

Among his most iconic moments were a late winner in the Merseyside derby, a key role in Liverpool's famous 4-0 Champions League semi-final comeback against FC Barcelona, and the second goal in the 2019 Champions League final that sealed the club's sixth European title.

Those performances earned him a reputation as a dependable match-winner and a cult hero among Liverpool supporters.

The latter stages of his career proved more challenging. After leaving Liverpool, Origi joined AC Milan, where he scored two goals in 36 appearances, before a loan spell at Nottingham Forest yielded one goal in 22 matches.

The moves failed to replicate the success he enjoyed during Liverpool's trophy-winning years, with his last senior appearance coming two years ago.

Origi leaves the game remembered less for consistency and more for producing decisive moments on football's biggest occasions.

In his farewell message, he thanked everyone who supported him and hinted at new ambitions beyond the pitch, saying: "The mission is complete. Now I step into my next calling."

The announcement sparked mixed reactions online, with some fans expressing surprise at his age. One user, Kelvin Kirwa Kiprono, commented: "31 retires?" while another, Kbj Bryo, wrote: "At Anfield we see him bigger than entire Arsenal."