Joel Matip’s contract at Liverpool expires in the summer and there is a chance that he has played his final game for the club.
The 32-year-old underwent successful surgery in December after injuring his ACL and it has, more than likely, ended his campaign.
It’s a huge shame for a player who is such a popular figure, not just with the Liverpool fans, but also with his own teammates.
That was proven by Mohamed Salah’s latest post via his Instagram story – the Egypt star himself is back on the pitch.
The Liverpool forward posted a small clip of Joel Matip doing some leg work in the gym as he tries to build up his strength once more.
In his absence, Ibrahima Konate has played alongside Virgil van Dijk, with youngster Jarell Quansah playing at the heart of the defence during Liverpool’s 1-1 draw against Manchester City on Sunday at Anfield.
Someone like Joel Matip would have been proud of the youngster’s display because it proves there is serious promise and life after and when the proven stars depart.
Mohamed Salah’s message about Joel Matip
’The legend is always working,” wrote Salah, as Matip looked on whilst doing some strength conditioning work on his right leg.
Virgil van Dijk stepping up
Everyone around van Dijk, at some point, has faced a lengthy spell on the sidelines, including Trent Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Matip, Andy Robertson and Alisson Becker.
In the case of some, they are still out and won’t return to action until after the international break.
But amid that chaos and constant change, as well as the young stars who have been handed chances, van Dijk has remained rock solid at the back.
And the Dutchman has proven why he is one of the world’s best because he is marshalling this Liverpool backline to possibly four trophies this season.
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