“New Year’s Day Hero Turns the Page: Liverpool Legend Retires and Launches Presidential Bid”
Liverpool have been home to countless great players over the years, and it’s always bittersweet when a former fan favorite hangs up their boots.
Ragnar Klavan recently announced his retirement on Instagram, sharing heartfelt words about his journey: “Today, I am bidding farewell to my ‘first love’ as I close the chapter on 24 incredible years as a professional footballer. There are so many people to thank – my family, friends, teammates, and coaches. My next big dream is a dream for Estonian football. I am excited to announce my candidacy for the presidency of the Estonian Football Association in 2025.”
The former defender, who endeared himself to Liverpool fans during his time at the club, leaves the game with high ambitions for the future.
Ragnar Klavan’s Liverpool Legacy
Klavan played 53 matches across two seasons, scoring twice, but his New Year’s Day winner against Burnley stands out as his most iconic moment. His final appearance came during the Champions League semi-final in 2018, highlighting the trust Jurgen Klopp had in him.
When Klavan moved to Cagliari six years ago, James Milner joked that the “old man” jokes would now target him—a testament to the leadership and experience Klavan brought to Liverpool’s squad. Virgil van Dijk’s arrival marked a new era for the Reds’ defense, but Klavan’s contributions during his time at Anfield remain fondly remembered.
Post-Liverpool Life
Beyond football, Klavan’s connection to Liverpool continued when he read Estonia’s Eurovision scores during the city’s hosting of the event in 2023. Now, with his bid for the presidency of the Estonian Football Association, the 39-year-old shows no signs of stepping away from the sport entirely.
Although his time at Liverpool was brief, Klavan made a lasting impression. Fans will undoubtedly wish him success as he embarks on this exciting new chapter.