Former Liverpool striker and cult hero Divock Origi announces retirement at 31

Divock Origi , the former Liverpool striker who became a cult hero for his penchant for scoring crucial goals, has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 31.

The ex-Belgium international etched his name into Anfield folklore with a series of unforgettable strikes. These included a pivotal double in the famous 4-0 Champions League semi-final comeback against Barcelona , followed by a goal in the final victory over Tottenham in 2019.

His stoppage-time winner in a Merseyside derby, which famously saw manager Jurgen Klopp sprint onto the pitch to embrace goalkeeper Alisson Becker , was one of six goals he netted against Everton .

Origi scored 41 times in 175 appearances for the club, only 68 of which were starts.

Origi’s career began at Lille before his move to Merseyside, where he also lifted the Premier League trophy in 2020. He later joined AC Milan on a free transfer in 2022, and spent a season-long loan with Nottingham Forest in 2024.

Origi terminated his contract with Milan in December of last year and has now decided that the time is right to close the curtain on his career.

Announcing his decision on social media, Origi reflected on a career that saw him achieve his childhood ambitions.

He wrote: "My purpose in the game as a player is fulfilled. 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.