Andy Robertson, one of Liverpool's most identifiable and popular players over the past nine years, is preparing to say goodbye to the club. The veteran left-back, who arrived from Hull City for just £8 million, has become a fan favourite and a key figure in one of the most successful eras in Liverpool's history.
A Journey from Rejection to Glory
Robertson was rejected by Celtic at the age of 15 and made his professional debut for Queen's Park at 18. Reflecting on his early struggles, he recalled tweeting: "Life at this age is rubbish with no money." Now, 377 appearances later, he leaves as a Champions League winner, a Premier League champion, and a player many consider the finest left-back in Liverpool's history.
The Barcelona Comeback and More
Robertson's time at Anfield was filled with unforgettable moments, including the famous Barcelona comeback, where he famously ruffled Lionel Messi's hair, the Champions League triumph in Madrid, and winning Liverpool's first league title in 30 years. However, he says the best feeling was "climbing the mountain" with Jürgen Klopp's team. "We were all on this journey from the bottom to the very top together," he reflects.
Farewell with No Regrets
As he prepares to leave, the 32-year-old Scotland captain insists he departs "with no regrets, no bitterness." He jokes that he is "glad that one of our Egyptian friends might take a bit more of the limelight. I can just sneak underneath that." Despite being "gutted" to leave, he is filled with pride at overcoming his initial insecurity to cement a place in Anfield folklore.
The Tragic Reality of This Season
When asked why Liverpool no longer feels the same, Robertson's reply brought home the tragic reality of the campaign. He revealed the devastating impact of Diogo Jota's death in a car crash last July. "What we went through in the summer no team will ever go through," he said. "Football didn't matter. We didn't care about football for weeks." The emotional toll, combined with new signings needing time and inconsistent performances, has led to a difficult season. "We have been too easy to play against," he admitted, but he believes the squad has enough quality to be successful again.
Pushing Each Other to Greatness
Robertson received a farewell gift from Trent Alexander-Arnold, a photo of them celebrating the 2019 Champions League final victory over Tottenham. The pair pushed each other to world-class levels, redefining the role of a full-back. Robertson recalled a press against Manchester City in January 2018 as the moment he felt he truly belonged. "I believe that was the game I finally belonged in a Liverpool jersey," he said.
Born in Glasgow, Made in Liverpool
A new mural near Anfield bears the inscription: "Born in Glasgow, Made in Liverpool." Robertson's connection with the city is a source of pride. "Liverpool and Glasgow are very similar cities," he said. "It has been so easy for me to fall in love with this city. I'm very fortunate that a lot of people in this city have fallen in love with me." He believes fans saw a player who gave 100% every time he put on the shirt, and he is grateful for their acceptance.
As Robertson bids farewell, his legacy at Liverpool is secure. He leaves with a massive smile on his face, knowing he gave everything for the club.
