A former Liverpool top goal-scorer has announced his shock retirement with his focus apparently on other interests.
Krisztian Adorjan had a difficult career. Liverpool signed the Hungarian striker in 2009 when he was just 16 years old. He was one of 14 Hungarians who moved to Merseyside either on trial, on loan or on permanent deals during a seven-year agreement between the Reds and MTK Budapest.
Adorjan trained with the first team and made a few pre-season appearances, including in Brendan Rodgers’ first-ever game in the US. He spent the start of his senior career at Liverpool out on loan, failing to make his senior debut for the Reds before leaving Liverpool in 2014 to join Serie C club Novara Calcio.
He was also the top goalscorer for Liverpool’s U21 side during the 2012/13 season with 10 goals.
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In an emotional Instagram post, Adorjan, who used a picture of his time at Liverpool featuring former academy star Adam Morgan, called football his “first love” and thanked the sport for the impact it made on his life.
“How could I forget you when my first love was you?! I am who I am because of you. I will be grateful for everything you taught me and gave me for the rest of my life. Thank you Football” said Adorjan.
The striker, who was playing for Budapest Honvéd and made 16 appearances for the side, is only 31 years old so this retirement comes as a shock.
A number of Adorjan’s former Liverpool teammates sent well-wishes to the Hungarian following his announcement.
Joao Texeria said: “What a player ! 😍 and even better person ! 🙌❤️ pleasure my friend”
Northern Ireland defender Ryan McLaughlin said: “What a player. Born on the half turn 🔥 Pleasure to play with you mate.”
“Proud of your brother! What a journey. If only your touch was as good as mine” said former Liverpool academy star Marc Pelosi.
As for what’s next for the Hungarian, he opened an ice-cream spot in Budapest called Bruno Dolce and Caffé with renowned Italian ice-cream expert Fabio Marconi, so it would be no surprise if all his focus went into his business instead.
