Ragnar Klavan
Joosep Martinson - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images
Estonian football legend and former Liverpool man Ragnar Klavan has today announced his retirement as a professional footballer.
Starting his career with Estonian clubs Elva, Tulevik, and Flora, Klavan’s breakthrough came when he won the Meistriliiga title with Flora in 2003.
His path to prominence began in earnest with successful stints in the Netherlands and Germany.
After winning the Eredivisie with AZ in 2008-09, Klavan established himself as a defensive stalwart at FC Augsburg, where he made an impressive 125 appearances over four seasons.
A big moment in Klavan’s career came with his €5 million move to Liverpool in 2016, making him the most expensive Estonian footballer in history.
During his time at Anfield, the defender carved out a special place in the hearts of supporters, becoming a beloved cult figure known for his no-nonsense approach and commitment to the side.
At Liverpool, Klavan achieved several notable milestones:
Made 39 Premier League appearances over two seasons
Became the first Estonian to score in the Premier League with a dramatic winning goal against Burnley
Participated in Liverpool’s journey to the 2017-18 Champions League final
DAVEOCKOP conducted an exclusive interview with the Estonian earlier this year, discussing how his move to Liverpool came about as well as who was the best player at Liverpool during his time at the club.
He also discussed Arne Slot’s appointment in May, with his assessment ringing 100% true in hindsight:
“I don’t know him personally. But I think he is a really amazing coach.”
“I think if Arne is the right man for the job, then I think Liverpool has done their homework”, he said to DAVEOCKOP.
“Their scouting is the best in the world… otherwise they would not have found and signed me!”
What did Ragnar Klavan say about his retirement?
Taking to Instagram, the 39-year-old posted a heartfelt message on Instagram, announcing his retirement as a professional footballer after 24 years:
“Today, I’ll say goodbye to my first love.”
“It’s time to put an end to the journey I began at the age of 15 and will conclude a 24-year career as a professional footballer. I want to thank you – dear football fans – for being with me throughout this time!”
“To summarise 24 years in few words is much harder than living through them.”
“My journey as a footballer has been full of significant milestones and remarkable people.”
“Reaching the European Championship playoffs with the Estonian national team and the entire iconic year of 2011.”
“On the club level, of course, winning the Dutch league title and reaching the Champions League final with Liverpool. Undoubtedly, I’ve been very fortunate to work with many of the world’s best managers.”
He then revealed that he would be looking to become the head of the Estonian Football Association, with a very specific goal in mind:
“My next big dream is for the Estonia’s national football teams to reach the top 50 in the FIFA rankings, and I see the potential for this to happen.”
“I believe, I can contribute to this dream by putting up my candidacy for the President of the Estonian Football Association next year.”
“One door closes, another one opens. Thank you!”
You can read his full statement on his Instagram page.
Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.