Joël Matip, a celebrated footballer born on August 8, 1991, has officially retired from professional football as of October 2024. After a distinguished career spanning over 15 years, including significant time at Schalke 04 and Liverpool, Matip decided to hang up his boots and explore opportunities in coaching. Known for his strong defensive skills and calm demeanor on the field, Matip was a crucial figure in some of the most memorable matches of the past decade.
His career saw numerous highs, from winning the UEFA Champions League and the Premier League with Liverpool to playing for Cameroon in two World Cups. Though his journey was sometimes interrupted by injuries, Matip’s contributions to his teams were undeniable. As he steps into retirement, his legacy as a remarkable defender remains intact.
Key Takeaways
- Joël Matip, born in 1991, is 33 years old and has retired from professional football in 2024.
- He played for Schalke 04 from 2009 to 2016 and for Liverpool from 2016 to 2024, winning major trophies with both clubs.
- Matip won the UEFA Champions League and Premier League with Liverpool and the DFB-Pokal and DFL-Supercup with Schalke.
- He has announced his intent to pursue coaching after retiring, potentially focusing on youth teams.
Joël Matip’s Early Career at Schalke
Matip began his professional career at Schalke 04, where he made his debut in November 2009. Over the next seven seasons, he became a key player for the Bundesliga side, making 258 appearances and scoring 23 goals. His standout moment at Schalke came in 2011 when the team won the DFB-Pokal and reached the UEFA Champions League semi-finals. His composure, ball control, and aerial ability made him a top defender in Germany, attracting the attention of clubs across Europe.
Joël Matip’s Success with Liverpool
In 2016, Matip made a high-profile move to Liverpool on a free transfer. His arrival bolstered Liverpool’s defense, and he quickly became a vital player under manager Jürgen Klopp. His defensive prowess was instrumental in Liverpool’s successful 2019 UEFA Champions League campaign, where they lifted the trophy after defeating Tottenham Hotspur in the final. The following year, Matip played a crucial role as Liverpool won their first Premier League title in 30 years during the 2019-20 season.
While injuries sometimes sidelined him, Matip’s performances when fit were exceptional. His ability to read the game, combined with his calmness under pressure, earned him the respect of teammates and fans alike.
| Joël Matip Career Overview |
| ————————– | ——————————- |
| Club | Appearances | Goals |
| Schalke 04 | 258 | 23 |
| Liverpool | 184 | 10 |
| Total | 442 | 33 |
Joël Matip Age and Retirement
As of 2024, Joël Matip is 33 years old, having been born on August 8, 1991. After a lengthy and successful career, Matip retired in October 2024 following his departure from Liverpool earlier in the year. His retirement marks the end of an era for a player who has been integral to both Schalke and Liverpool’s successes. Matip has expressed his desire to stay connected to football, with an interest in coaching young talents and helping to develop the next generation of players.
Joël Matip’s Personal Life – Family and Social Media
While Matip’s personal life remains relatively private, it is known that he has been in a long-term relationship, often referred to as his "Freundin" (girlfriend). However, details about her are scarce, as Matip has chosen to keep his private life out of the spotlight. On social media, Matip maintains an Instagram account where he occasionally shares glimpses of his personal life and career updates with his followers.
Joël Matip on Transfermarkt
Joël Matip’s profile on Transfermarkt highlights his status as a free agent following his departure from Liverpool. His career value peaked during his time at Liverpool, reflecting his importance to the club and his international recognition. Matip’s market value over the years showcased his consistency as a top-level defender, making him a target for several big clubs before his eventual retirement.
What’s Next for Joël Matip?
Now that he has retired from playing, Joël Matip has hinted at a future in football coaching. His calm demeanor and tactical understanding of the game make him well-suited for coaching roles. He has expressed a particular interest in working with youth teams, hoping to inspire and guide young players just starting their football journeys.
FAQ
How old is Joël Matip?
Joël Matip is 33 years old, born on August 8, 1991.
When did Joël Matip retire?
Joël Matip retired from professional football in October 2024 after leaving Liverpool earlier that year.
What teams did Joël Matip play for?
Joël Matip played for Schalke 04 from 2009 to 2016 and Liverpool from 2016 to 2024.
What trophies did Joël Matip win during his career?
Matip won the DFB-Pokal and DFL-Supercup with Schalke in 2011. At Liverpool, he won the UEFA Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League in 2020.
Is Joël Matip married?
Joël Matip is in a long-term relationship, but details about his partner are kept private.
What are Joël Matip’s plans after retirement?
After retirement, Matip plans to pursue a career in coaching, with a particular focus on working with youth teams.
How can I follow Joël Matip on social media?
Joël Matip is active on Instagram, where he shares updates about his career and personal life. However, he keeps his private life relatively low-profile.