Joel Matip, the former Liverpool center-back, could potentially make a return to Anfield this month, albeit in the colors of a rival club. Matip, who left Liverpool at the end of last season after his contract expired, has reportedly been offered a two-year deal by West Ham United. This move comes as West Ham looks to bolster their defensive options following the departures of Kurt Zouma and Thilo Kehrer during the summer transfer window.
Matip's time at Liverpool was marked by significant contributions to the club's success under Jurgen Klopp. Joining the Reds in 2016 from Schalke on a free transfer, Matip quickly became a key figure in Liverpool's defense. Over eight years, he made 201 appearances, scored 11 goals, and played a crucial role in Liverpool's victories in major competitions, including the Premier League and the Champions League.
Despite his achievements, Matip's final season at Liverpool was marred by an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in December, which sidelined him for the remainder of the campaign. This injury meant that Matip missed the last five months of his Liverpool career, unable to contribute on the pitch as the club sought to maintain its competitive edge.
Since his departure from Liverpool, Matip has been linked with several clubs across Europe, including Bayer Leverkusen, managed by former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso. However, it appears that a return to the Premier League is the most likely outcome, with West Ham United reportedly offering him a contract until 2026.
West Ham's interest in Matip is understandable, given their recent defensive departures and the need to strengthen their backline. The Hammers allowed Kurt Zouma to join Saudi Arabian club Al-Orobah and sold Thilo Kehrer to Monaco for £9.5 million. With these exits, West Ham is in need of experienced defensive reinforcements, and Matip, with his wealth of Premier League and European experience, fits the bill perfectly.
The potential move to West Ham could see Matip make a swift return to Anfield, as Liverpool is set to face West Ham in the Carabao Cup third round on Wednesday, September 25. If Matip does sign for the London club, there is a chance he could be involved in the match against his former team, provided he is fully recovered from his knee injury.
Jurgen Klopp, who managed Matip throughout his time at Liverpool, paid a heartfelt tribute to the defender following his departure. Klopp praised Matip not just for his footballing abilities but also for his character, describing him as a "wonderful professional, a wonderful footballer, and a wonderful human being." Klopp emphasized how much Liverpool benefited from Matip's presence both on and off the pitch, noting that while Matip may not have always been in the headlines, he was highly regarded within the squad.
Klopp also highlighted Matip's selflessness and dedication, mentioning that Matip set high standards for himself and his teammates, which contributed to the club's success during his tenure. Despite not always receiving the recognition he deserved, Matip's impact at Liverpool was undeniable, and his contributions will be remembered fondly by the club and its supporters.
As Matip considers the next step in his career, a move to West Ham could provide him with the opportunity to continue playing at the highest level in the Premier League while also bringing valuable experience to a team looking to challenge for European qualification. Whether Matip accepts the offer from West Ham and makes a return to Anfield as an opponent remains to be seen, but his legacy at Liverpool is already secure.
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