It is official, Liverpool has confirmed it. Club captain Steven Gerrard will leave Anfield at the end of the 2014-15 season, when his contract expires, calling an end to his illustrious 17-season career at Merseyside.
The Reds revealed this via Twitter as speculation of the English midfielder’s Anfield exit grew and spread like wildfire across the media.
After 695 games and 180 goals for Liverpool, Gerrard has decided it is time to part ways with Brendan Rodgers’ side, but admitted to it being “the toughest decision" of his life”, whilst also remaining hopeful of one day returning to his club of 20 years.
Gerrard said: "This has been the toughest decision of my life, one both me and my family have agonised over for a good deal of time.
"I’m making the announcement now so the manager and team are not distracted by stories or speculation about my future.
"Liverpool Football Club has been such a huge part of all our lives for so long and saying goodbye is going to be difficult, but I feel it's something that's in the best interests of all involved, including my family and the club itself."
#LFC can confirm that Steven Gerrard is to leave the club at the end of the 2014-15 season #LFCicon pic.twitter.com/an6AjmFgvE
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 2, 2015
Gerrard: "This has been the toughest decision of my life, one both me and my family have agonised over for a good deal of time." #LFCicon
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 2, 2015
"I can't thank Brendan, the owners and everyone at the club enough for how they've handled this and I am leaving on great terms. Also, I would like to thank my teammates and all the staff for their help and continued support.
"It is a very special place to be part of. It is my sincere hope and wish that one day I can return to serve Liverpool again, in whatever capacity best helps the club."
Brendan Rodgers hails Gerrard after the captain announced he will leave Liverpool at the end of the season
Brendan Rodgers on Gerrard: "This is an era where 'legend' is vastly overused, but in his case it actually doesn't do him justice." #LFCicon
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 2, 2015
Brendan Rodgers on Gerrard: "As a leader and as a man, he is probably incomparable to anyone I have ever worked with." #LFCicon
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 2, 2015
"My final message is for the people who make Liverpool Football Club the greatest in the world - the supporters.
"It has been a privilege to represent you, as a player and as captain. I have cherished every second of it and it is my sincere wish to finish this season and my Liverpool career on a high."
A special message from Steven Gerrard to #LFC supporters… #LFCicon pic.twitter.com/cWWYlFqBL6
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 2, 2015
Tributes poured in for the former England captain
It was an honour to get the chance to play alongside Steven Gerrard .. Will always be a legend. pic.twitter.com/sO9fSvODcL
— Jonjo Shelvey (@shelveyJ) January 2, 2015
lucky to have played with this guy, so level headed for someone with special talent, evry football fan will miss him pic.twitter.com/qzn6q3gxhS
— Martin Kelly (@MartinKelly1990) January 2, 2015
Stevie G. The biggest I have seen. Worked with, what a player outside and inside. Biggest spirit I never seen. LEGEND.
— Daniel Pacheco (@dani37pacheco) January 2, 2015
What a player who has given LFC so much. It's time to support him and respect what must have been a very tough decision to make #SG08
— Neil Mellor (@NeilMellor33) January 2, 2015
Youngsters look up on him, players want to play with him, managers want to have him, pundits respect him, supporters love him. #LFCicon
— F. Ferdian (@radenferdy) January 2, 2015
My favourite all time player, idol and inspiration this man is a true legend so sad to see him go :( #LFCicon pic.twitter.com/DaZQWwOjse
— - (@ReservedRowan) January 2, 2015
I will always miss the commentator's voices when they say Geeerrrraaaarrrdddddd WHAT A GOAL #LFCicon @SouthAfricaLFC pic.twitter.com/M9UCudW47V
— #LFCicon #SG08 (@Tshedax_11) January 2, 2015
Although Liverpool revealed he will be leaving the English Premier League for a move abroad, both club and player stated no decision has been made yet regarding Gerrard's next destination. He is, however, tipped with a switch to LA Galaxy.