Former England midfielder Adam Lallana has officially retired from professional football after a remarkable 20-year career. The 36-year-old midfielder concluded his journey with Southampton, the same club where it all began, calling it a perfect and meaningful end to his football life.
Lallana began his career at Southampton and returned there for his final season, playing in familiar colors one last time. Over the years, he also featured for Bournemouth, Liverpool, and Brighton, making a total of 305 Premier League appearances and 283 matches for Southampton in all competitions.
He played a crucial role in leading Southampton from League One to the Europa League, even captaining the side during his time there. In 2014, he signed with Liverpool and enjoyed great success—winning both the Premier League and UEFA Champions League. After six seasons at Anfield, he spent his final active years at Brighton.
Internationally, Lallana earned 34 caps for England and was voted England’s Player of the Year in 2016. He called representing the national team the highest honor of his career.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Lallana thanked everyone who supported him throughout his journey. He expressed deep gratitude to Southampton for being “where everything started and where it now ends.” He also mentioned how much Liverpool and Brighton meant to him and gave a special thanks to his wife Emily, their two sons, his parents, and sister for their constant support.
At the end of last season, Lallana briefly served as an interim assistant coach at Southampton. Reports suggest he might now remain at the club and work under new head coach Will Still in a full-time coaching role.