After his contract with Schalke expired, former Cameroon international defender Joel Matip joined Liverpool on a free transfer in the summer of 2016. Although he did not secure a starting spot in every season, he helped Liverpool win numerous titles as a second or third center back.
The 32-year-old defender, who also impresses with his unique rhythm of dribbling the ball forward, has only played for two teams as a professional: Schalke and Liverpool.
He said he has no regrets about finishing his career with only two clubs, but he also said that he does not know what will happen in the future.
“I’m at an age where I don’t worry so much about the future anymore,”
“I try to make the most of every day and don’t look too far ahead. If in the end it was just these two clubs, I would be perfectly happy. But in football you never know for sure.”
“At a club like Liverpool, competition is part of the game. Of course I’m happy that I managed to hold my own for such a long time. Of course, you have to show something every now and then – otherwise you won’t have the opportunity to stay that long. We have so much quality and so many games that you inevitably end up on the bench – that’s normal. And I’m also happy to have such good colleagues in central defence.”
Sky Deutschland
He has been injured frequently, making it difficult for him to play an active role throughout the season. And due to his age, there is no denying the feeling that his speed and other qualities have been declining in recent years. His contract expires next summer, and Liverpool, looking for a new center back, is likely to let him go without a transfer fee.
However, Matip’s experience is valuable in a team where experienced midfielders have left the club. Liverpool’s final line had a tumultuous start to the season with Ibrahima Konate out injured and Virgil van Dijk suspended, but the 32-year-old defender has anchored the back line.
Will Liverpool’s story with the former Schalke defender come to an end this season…?