Former Liverpool man Patrik Berger, once renowned for his spectacular long-range goals and long flowing hair, now sports a strikingly different look. The ex-midfielder, who was known for his long-sleeved jerseys at Anfield, now flaunts tattooed arms. The 52-year-old, who hasn't donned the Reds' jersey in over two decades, has swapped his clean-cut image for a rugged appearance complete with a full beard, a transformation that will surely surprise fans who remember him from his playing days.
Berger was a key figure in Gerard Houllier's squad that clinched the treble in the 2000/01 season, making 198 appearances during his seven-year stint on Merseyside. The Czech international netted 28 goals for the club, nearly half of which were scored from beyond 18 yards.
Berger, who earned 42 caps for his country, enjoyed a career that spanned Sparta Prague, Borussia Dortmund, Portsmouth, Aston Villa and Stoke City before hanging up his boots in 2010. He later played amateur football for sixth-tier Czech Republic side Dolni Chabry.
His Liverpool career ended on a sour note due to knee injuries, which limited him to just four appearances as he slipped down the ranks. Despite scoring against Liverpool in his first match against them, Berger looks back on his time with the club with great affection.
"You have to live for the day and I enjoyed my time at Liverpool," he reflected on those glory days. "On the pitch 2001 was amazing, we won five trophies, qualified for the Champions League in the final game of the season.
"It was an unbelievable season, great squad, the camaraderie was brilliant, this really helped get over the time. Everything just clicked in those final matches.
"You need luck and we got the luck, but the squad was all connected, all fighting for each other and all had the same belief that we could win.
"Looking at the FA Cup final, Michael [Owen]'s pace was electric and if any of us could find the pass, he would get onto it. His left foot wasn't his strongest, but he took the goal so well, beating two Arsenal defenders.
"Arsenal were the better team that day, but as I said, we rode our luck, stayed in the game and managed to win. It was a year I won't forget with so many great memories and many friends I made for life.
"The highlight of my career was signing for Liverpool, first off. This was a dream that had come true, signing for such a great club. I loved my time at Liverpool and to still be involved with the club is great."
Since hanging up his boots, Berger has remained active in football. He established the Patrik Berger football agency, which has represented players including Bayer Leverkusen's Patrik Schick and Ondrej Penxa.