Jovial veteran goalkeeper Adrian joined Liverpool on a free transfer when his contract expired with West Ham United in 2019.
He was initially second choice and started in cup competitions, but gradually lost his place due to the rise of Caoimhin Kelleher, and was third goalkeeper last season.
He could have left the club last summer, but agreed a one-year contract extension.
And although he was expected to leave again this summer at the end of his contract, he was not included in the departure ceremony on the last day of the season and it looked as if he would remain at Anfield next season.
As a result, the 37-year-old goalkeeper returned to his old club Real Betis, but in the process of getting there, he was offered the job by Liverpool.
He also said he had discussions with newly appointed sporting director Richard Hughes, who revealed that manager Arne Slot wanted him to stay on as a spiritual pillar.
“It was not an easy decision, after five seasons at Liverpool, achieving practically everything with Jurgen (Klopp), with such a great atmosphere in the dressing room,”
“But in a sporting career, and in life, a train passes only once, and this was the opportunity, the moment to return home, to a great project for the future at Betis.”
“I’ve a lot of respect for Richard, and we had various conversations about the new project,”
“He told me Arne wanted me to stay, as an important person in the dressing room.”
“I appreciated the contract offer, and also appreciate their understanding.”
“It’s like Jurgen said — the important thing is not what people think of you when you arrive, but when you leave. Leaving in a good way, with respect, was very important for me.”
The Athletic