Former England international Adam Lallana has called time on his professional football career at the age of 37, revealing his decision through a heartfelt Instagram post.
The Southampton midfielder's announcement brings to a close a distinguished career spanning nearly two decades since his professional debut in 2006.
In his emotional farewell message, Lallana expressed profound gratitude for his journey in the sport.
"Since making my professional debut in 2006, I realise I've been blessed to live the dream that millions of people share," he wrote.
Former England international Adam Lallana has called time on his professional football career at the age of 37, revealing his decision through a heartfelt Instagram post
PA
"As I call time on my playing career, I do so with an overwhelming sense of gratitude and pride."
Lallana's footballing journey began at Southampton, where he progressed through the youth academy before breaking into the first team as a teenager.
The midfielder would go on to make 283 appearances for the Saints across two separate stints at St Mary's.
His initial spell saw him play a pivotal role in the club's remarkable ascent through the divisions. Lallana helped guide Southampton from League One to the Premier League, with the team eventually qualifying for European competition.
"Southampton the place where it all started, and fittingly where it ends," Lallana reflected.
"It's the club I ultimately owe everything to."
Lallana's career reached its pinnacle following his £25 million transfer to Liverpool in 2014. The midfielder spent six successful seasons at Anfield, where he became an integral part of Jurrgen Klopp's squad.
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His time on Merseyside yielded the most prestigious honours of his career.
Lallana was part of the Liverpool side that captured the Champions League trophy in 2019, followed by the club's long-awaited Premier League title in 2020.
The England international, who earned 34 caps for his country, described representing the Three Lions as "the greatest honour" in his retirement message.
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Following his Liverpool stint, Lallana moved to Brighton before making an emotional return to Southampton in summer 2024.
Lallana's final chapter at Southampton took an unexpected turn when he assumed temporary managerial duties in April following Ivan Juric's departure.
The club had already suffered relegation to the Championship during what proved to be a tumultuous campaign.
Adam Lallana has retired after a brief stint back at Southampton
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In his farewell message, Lallana paid tribute to those who supported him throughout his career.
"To everyone who made the journey so special, the staff at each club and organisation, the managers and coaches, my team-mates, and of course the supporters - thank you," he wrote.
He reserved special praise for his family, stating: "But most of all, to my own team my family. My wife Emily, our amazing sons, my mum, dad and sister, thank you for putting up with me and being in my corner through it all."
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