Georginio Wijnaldum plots return to his native Netherlands
Liverpool midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum has revealed that he does not intend to finish his playing career at Liverpool. The 29-year-old is keen to return to the Netherlands before he decides to call it a day according to Dutch publication Rijnmond (h/t Liverpool Echo).
The Dutch international has been a key member of Jurgen Klopp’s midfield since joining the Reds from Newcastle United in 2016. A crucial first-team player, Wijnldum has amassed 17 goals and 16 assists in 174 appearances for the Anfield giants.
He began his career at Sparta Rotterdam and went on to play for Eredivisie giants Feyenoord and PSV before moving to England in 2015. The player intends to retire in the Eredivisie, where it all began for him.
“In the future I see myself playing for Feyenoord, PSV or Sparta again.”
Describing it as his dream to win trophies, he hopes to emulate Dutch legend Clarence Seedorf by continuing to play for as long as he can. Wijnaldum believes that he can play at the highest level until he is 38.
The Dutchman gave Liverpool the lead against West Ham on Monday as the Reds inched closer to their maiden Premier League title. He also played a crucial role in the memorable comeback against Barcelona when he came off the bench to score twice.
A versatile player, he has featured regularly under Klopp and is one of the leaders in the Liverpool squad. Wijnaldum’s contract with Liverpool runs out next summer.
The 29-year-old also praised the atmosphere in the Liverpool dressing room. He admits that the environment is conducive for the players to be honest towards each other even though they may not always like what they hear.
“We’re just honest with each other and try to help each other out to do as good as possible.”
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Wijnaldum has established himself as one of Liverpool’s key midfielders. It remains to be seen if he will extend his stay on Merseyside beyond next season.
