Former Liverpool favorite announces retirement after 'amazing journey'

Ryan Babel has announced his retirement from soccer, with the former Liverpool forward hanging up his boots at the age of 37.

Liverpool signed Babel as a promising 20-year-old back in 2007, paying Ajax $18 million for the Dutchman during a transitional summer. The Reds saw stars such as Luis Garcia, Robbie Fowler, Djibril Cisse, and Craig Bellamy depart the club, and Babel arrived at Anfield alongside Fernando Torres, Lucas Leiva, Javier Mascherano, Martin Skrtel, and Yossi Benayoun.

Babel spent four seasons at Liverpool and made 146 appearances in all competitions, scoring 22 goals. He was sold in 2011 to Hoffenheim for $10 million and went on to play for Besiktas, Fulham, and Galatasaray before wrapping up his career at Turkish club Eyupspor.

The Dutchman announced his decision on Saturday and wrote on social media: "As I look back on my career it feels surreal to think about how far I have come. From my early days at Ajax to playing for some of the biggest clubs in Europe, it's been a journey full of unforgettable moments.

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"I've been fortunate enough to play with and against some of the best players in the world and I have learned and grown in ways I never imagined. Football has been more than just a job, it's 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 had. Football gave me everything I dreamed of and so much more.

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

Babel played under three different managers during his time at Liverpool but infamously fell out with Rafael Benitez. Babel looks back on the situation with regret but believes he wasn't treated fairly either. "He promised me certain things at this time to help me develop which I thought was the same as Ajax but at a different pace," Babel told The Independent.

"But from the start, I felt basically left out, by myself, no help and that was of course very difficult for a 20-year-old. I had really to become an adult very quickly and adapt. It was up and down but at the same time, I had a great experience there. I learned a lot.

"When I look back I could have done things differently but at the same time I also think I could have got more guidance from the coaches." While Babel had his differences with coaches, the Dutchman felt the love from Liverpool fans during his time at Anfield.