Home » ARTICLES » Jurgen Klopp favourite linked with Premier League return

Jurgen Klopp favourite linked with Premier League return

Photo of author

By Arindam Talukdar

Joel Matip was one of the players to leave Liverpool at the expiration of his contract, but the 33-year-old remains undecided on his next move.

As far as free transfers are concerned, few are better than Matip, who has left a lasting impression on Liverpool supporters after eight successful seasons at Anfield. His composure in defence and key contributions over the years have solidified his place in the club’s history.

Joel Matip reacts after being shown a yellow card by English referee Paul Tierney during the English Premier League football match between Liverpool and Brentford at Anfield in Liverpool, north west England on November 12, 2023. (Photo by Paul ELLIS / AFP)

Liverpool struck gold with Joel Matip back in 2016

Joel Matip, who primarily plays as a centre-back and also as a defensive midfielder, first gained First Team status with Schalke after years of development in their academy. Known for his versatility in defence, Matip made a significant impact at Schalke over several seasons.

In the summer of 2016, he joined Liverpool on a free transfer, marking the start of a successful period at Anfield. At Liverpool, Matip became a key figure under the German genius, Jürgen Klopp in the defensive lineup and was integral to the team’s triumphs in both the Premier League and the Champions League but due to a cruciate ligament tear, The Center-back did not play for the Reds again, who let his contract expire in the summer of 2023.

Joel Matip Stats at Liverpool in the Premier League

What the future holds for the Cameroonian

The Cameroonian is currently a free agent following the expiration of his contract at the end of the 2023-24 season. He is now searching for a club that aligns with his vision. Although Bayer Leverkusen was once a potential destination, their interest has Faded with Jonathan Tah staying beyond the transfer window.

Currently, Joel Matip is catching interest from West Ham, with Sky Sports’ Dharmesh Sheth reporting that the Premier League club is considering him as they seek late additions to their centre-back options.

More Liverpool News

A return to Germany appeared more likely for Joel Matip, and there were also reports of offers from other European and Asian clubs. However, with the transfer window closing and no new centre-back joining Liverpool, some supporters have suggested that re-signing Matip could be a smart move. Despite this, it seems improbable, as Joe Gomez remains at the club and Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, and Jarell Quansah are all firmly established as key players in Liverpool’s defence.

Subsribe To Our News Letter

Receive the best bits of Liverpool coverage on your mail

* indicates required