Former Premier League star announces shock retirement at 37 as fans hail 'true legend'

A FORMER Premier League icon has announced his retirement from professional football.

Ex-Liverpool cult hero Ryan Babylon has hung up his boots at the age of 37.

Former Liverpool star Ryan Babel has retired from professional footballCredit: PA: Empics Sport

The cult hero has played for some of Europe's top clubs — The cult hero has played for some of Europe’s top clubsCredit: Getty

The 69-time Dutch international has retired after playing his last professional match for Turkish side Eyuspor in 2023.

On social media, Babel announced that it was time to end his career, in which he played for Liverpool, among others. Galatasaray And Ajax.

He wrote: ‘When I look back on my career, it feels surreal to think about how far I’ve come.

“From my early days at Ajax to playing for some of the biggest clubs in Europe, it has been a journey full of unforgettable moments.

“I have been fortunate to play with and against some of the best players in the world and I have learned and grown in ways I could never have imagined.

“Football It has been more than just a job, it has been a way of life: the discipline, the sacrifice, the passion, the glory and even the pain have all played a part in my development, both on and off the field.

“I am filled with gratitude for this amazing journey I have been on. Football has given me everything I dreamed of and more.

“Thank you to all my teammates, coaches, fans and even the media who have been part of this incredible adventure. This game will be in my heart forever. Thank you.”

Babel played three spells at Ajax after graduating from the club's academy — Babel played three spells at Ajax after graduating from the club’s academyCredit: Getty

The Dutchman represented his country 69 timesCredit: Reuters

Ryan Babel’s career

A brief look at Ryan Babel’s career…

CLUB CAREER

2004 – 2007: Ajax
2007 – 2011: Liverpool
2011 – 2012: Hoffenheim
2012 – 2013: Ajax
2013 – 2015: Kasimpasa
2015 – 2016: Al-Ain
2016 – 2017: Deportivo La Coruna
2017 – 2019: Besiktas
2019: Fulham
2019 – 2022: Galatasaray
2020: Ajax (rental)
2022 – 2023: Eyupspor

INTERNATIONAL CARER

Caps: 69
Goals: 10
Assistants: 9
Debut: March 26, 2005 vs. Romania
Last match: March 30, 2021 vs Gibraltar

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Babel played 146 games for Liverpool, scoring 22 times and registering 18 assists.

While he also played 47 Champions League appearances for the Reds, Ajax, Besiktas and Galatasaray – scoring nine times in Europe’s elite competition.

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Babel also had a short period Fulham during the latter stages of his career, playing under both Claudio Ranieri And Scott Parker.

Babel represented the Netherlands 69 times on the international stage and was part of the selection for both the 2006 and 2010 World Cup.

The fan favorite retires after winning two Eredivisie titles, two Dutch cups, one Turkish league title and one Turkish super cup.

Fans have praised the hero online following his announcement.

One wrote: “Congratulations on a great career!”

While another added: “Literally one of the best wingers I’ve seen play for Liverpool.”

And a third labeled Babel a ‘real legend’.