Liverpool's 2014 Squad: Where Are They Now?
The 2013-2014 season was a rollercoaster for Liverpool fans. The Reds, led by the dynamic duo of Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge, came agonizingly close to lifting their first Premier League title in what felt like an eternity. The memories of that season are still vivid, filled with exhilarating wins, heartbreaking defeats, and the sheer brilliance of the team's attacking prowess. But what happened to the players who donned the famous red jersey that year? Let's take a trip down memory lane and find out where the key members of that Liverpool 2014 squad are now.
The Goalkeepers
Simon Mignolet: The Belgian shot-stopper was Liverpool's first-choice goalkeeper for much of the 2013-2014 season. Mignolet, known for his shot-stopping abilities, played a crucial role in several key victories that season. After losing his place to Loris Karius and later Alisson Becker, Mignolet returned to Belgium in 2019, joining Club Brugge. He has since re-established himself as one of the top goalkeepers in the Belgian league, winning multiple titles and consistently showcasing his experience and talent. Mignolet's time at Liverpool was marked by both highs and lows, but his contribution during the 2014 season cannot be overlooked. His saves often kept Liverpool in games, providing the platform for the team's attacking stars to shine. The transition from the Premier League's high-intensity environment to the Belgian league has allowed Mignolet to refine his skills and continue his career at a high level.
Brad Jones: The experienced Australian served as the team's second-choice keeper. While he didn't feature as prominently as Mignolet, Jones was a reliable backup, ready to step in when needed. After leaving Liverpool in 2015, Jones embarked on a journeyman career, playing for clubs in England, the Netherlands, and Saudi Arabia. He eventually found a home in his native Australia, playing for Perth Glory before retiring. Jones's career has been a testament to his dedication and longevity, showcasing his ability to adapt to different leagues and footballing cultures. Although he may not be a household name, Jones's contributions to the teams he played for, including Liverpool, were always appreciated by his teammates and coaches. His experience and professionalism made him a valuable asset in the dressing room.
The Defenders
Glen Johnson: The England international was a mainstay at right-back for Liverpool. Johnson, known for his pace and attacking forays, contributed both defensively and offensively. After leaving Liverpool in 2015, Johnson joined Stoke City, where he continued to play in the Premier League for a few more seasons before retiring. During his time at Liverpool, Johnson was a consistent performer, providing width and attacking threat from the right-back position. His ability to overlap with midfielders and deliver crosses into the box made him a valuable asset in Liverpool's attacking setup. Defensively, Johnson was solid and reliable, making him a well-rounded player. His experience and leadership were also important assets in the Liverpool dressing room.
Martin Škrtel: The Slovakian powerhouse was a rock at the heart of Liverpool's defense. Škrtel, known for his tough tackling and no-nonsense approach, was a fan favorite at Anfield. After an eight-year spell with Liverpool, Škrtel moved to Fenerbahçe in 2016. He later played for Atalanta and İstanbul Başakşehir before returning to Slovakia to play for Spartak Trnava, where he eventually retired. Škrtel's time at Liverpool was characterized by his unwavering commitment and passion for the club. He was a fierce competitor on the pitch and a respected figure in the dressing room. His defensive partnership with players like Daniel Agger and Jamie Carragher helped solidify Liverpool's defense during his time at the club. Škrtel's no-nonsense style and dedication made him a beloved figure among Liverpool fans.
Daniel Agger: The Danish defender was known for his elegant style and ball-playing ability. Agger formed a strong partnership with Skrtel at the back. Agger returned to his boyhood club Brøndby in 2014, where he played until his retirement in 2016. Agger's career was marked by his technical ability and his commitment to his clubs. His ability to read the game and distribute the ball from the back made him a valuable asset to Liverpool's team. Agger's decision to return to Brøndby was driven by his desire to play for his boyhood club and contribute to the development of Danish football. His leadership and experience were invaluable during his time back in Denmark.
Mamadou Sakho: The French center-back brought physicality and aerial presence to the Liverpool defense. Sakho, known for his strong tackles and commanding presence, was a key figure in the team's defensive setup. After a controversial spell at Liverpool, Sakho joined Crystal Palace in 2017. He later moved to Montpellier in France, where he continues to play. Sakho's time at Liverpool was marked by both highs and lows. His defensive contributions were often crucial, but off-field issues sometimes overshadowed his performances. Despite the controversies, Sakho's passion for the game and his commitment to his teammates were always evident.
Jon Flanagan: A local lad who came through the ranks at Liverpool, Flanagan provided versatility and determination in defense. Flanagan, known for his tenacity and work ethic, was a popular figure among Liverpool fans. After struggling to break into the first team consistently, Flanagan had loan spells at Burnley and Bolton Wanderers before joining Rangers in 2018. He has since played for various clubs, including Charleroi in Belgium. Flanagan's career has been a testament to his resilience and determination to succeed in professional football. His versatility and willingness to play in different positions have made him a valuable asset to the teams he has played for.
José Enrique: The Spanish left-back offered pace and attacking intent down the flank. Enrique, known for his powerful runs and crossing ability, provided a valuable outlet for Liverpool's attack. After struggling with injuries, Enrique left Liverpool in 2016 and returned to Spain to play for Real Zaragoza. He later retired from professional football. Enrique's time at Liverpool was marked by his attacking contributions and his ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. His injuries, however, hampered his progress and limited his playing time in later years.
The Midfielders
Steven Gerrard: The legendary captain and heart of Liverpool's midfield. Gerrard, known for his leadership, passing range, and goal-scoring ability, was the driving force behind Liverpool's success. After a stellar career at Liverpool, Gerrard moved to LA Galaxy in 2015. He retired from playing in 2016 and has since embarked on a successful managerial career, starting at the Liverpool academy and later managing Rangers, Aston Villa, and currently Al-Ettifaq. Gerrard's impact on Liverpool is immeasurable, both as a player and as a leader. His passion for the club and his commitment to excellence have made him a role model for aspiring footballers around the world. His transition to management has been marked by his tactical acumen and his ability to inspire his players.
Jordan Henderson: The current Liverpool captain, Henderson, was a key figure in midfield, providing energy and leadership. Henderson, known for his work rate and passing ability, has become an integral part of Liverpool's success. After taking over the captaincy from Steven Gerrard, Henderson has led Liverpool to numerous titles, including the Premier League and the Champions League. He currently plays for Al-Ettifaq alongside Steven Gerrard. Henderson's leadership and commitment to the club have made him a beloved figure among Liverpool fans. His ability to drive the team forward and his unwavering determination have been crucial to Liverpool's success.
Philippe Coutinho: The Brazilian magician brought creativity and flair to Liverpool's attack. Coutinho, known for his dribbling skills and long-range shooting ability, was a fan favorite at Anfield. After a big-money move to Barcelona in 2018, Coutinho struggled to replicate his Liverpool form. He had a loan spell at Bayern Munich before joining Aston Villa. He currently plays for Al-Duhail on loan from Aston Villa. Coutinho's time at Liverpool was marked by his dazzling performances and his ability to create moments of magic on the pitch. His departure left a void in Liverpool's attack, but his contributions to the club will always be remembered.
Joe Allen: The Welsh midfielder provided composure and passing accuracy in the middle of the park. Allen, known for his technical ability and tactical awareness, was a valuable asset in Liverpool's midfield. After leaving Liverpool in 2016, Allen joined Stoke City, where he continued to play in the Championship. He later returned to his boyhood club Swansea City. Allen's career has been marked by his consistency and his ability to adapt to different playing styles. His technical skills and tactical awareness have made him a valuable asset to the teams he has played for.
Lucas Leiva: The Brazilian defensive midfielder was a stalwart in the Liverpool squad, providing steel and resilience. Lucas, known for his tackling and defensive abilities, was a fan favorite at Anfield. After a decade at Liverpool, Lucas returned to his boyhood club Grêmio in 2017. He retired from professional football in 2023 due to a heart condition. Lucas's time at Liverpool was marked by his unwavering commitment and his defensive contributions. His tackling and interceptions often broke up opposition attacks, providing a solid foundation for Liverpool's attacking players to shine. His loyalty to the club and his dedication to his teammates made him a beloved figure among Liverpool fans.
The Forwards
Luis Suárez: The Uruguayan superstar was the talisman of Liverpool's attack, scoring goals and creating havoc for defenses. Suárez, known for his dribbling skills, goal-scoring ability, and relentless work rate, was a phenomenon at Anfield. After a controversial but prolific spell at Liverpool, Suárez joined Barcelona in 2014. He later played for Atlético Madrid and Nacional before joining Inter Miami. Suárez's time at Liverpool was marked by his incredible goal-scoring record and his ability to inspire his teammates. His partnership with Daniel Sturridge was one of the most exciting attacking duos in Premier League history.
Daniel Sturridge: The English striker formed a deadly partnership with Suárez, scoring crucial goals. Sturridge, known for his pace, skill, and finishing ability, was a key figure in Liverpool's attack. After struggling with injuries, Sturridge left Liverpool in 2019. He played for Trabzonspor, Perth Glory and now plies his trade for Spanish side RCD Mallorca. Sturridge's time at Liverpool was marked by his goal-scoring prowess and his ability to link up with Suárez. His injuries, however, hampered his progress and limited his playing time in later years.
Raheem Sterling: The young winger provided pace and trickery on the flanks. Sterling, known for his dribbling skills and his ability to beat defenders, was a promising talent at Liverpool. After a controversial move to Manchester City in 2015, Sterling has gone on to become one of the top players in the Premier League. He currently plays for Chelsea. Sterling's time at Liverpool was marked by his potential and his ability to create scoring opportunities. His move to Manchester City allowed him to develop his game further and become a more complete player.
Victor Moses: The Nigerian winger provided width and versatility to the attack during his loan spell. Moses, known for his pace and crossing ability, was a valuable asset in Liverpool's squad. After his loan spell ended, Moses returned to Chelsea. He has since played for various clubs, including Inter Milan and Spartak Moscow. Moses's career has been marked by his versatility and his ability to play in different positions. His pace and crossing ability have made him a valuable asset to the teams he has played for.
The 2013-2014 Liverpool squad was a special group of players who came within touching distance of Premier League glory. While they ultimately fell short, their performances that season will be remembered fondly by Liverpool fans for years to come. The individual journeys of these players since leaving Anfield have been varied and fascinating, showcasing the unpredictable nature of football and the diverse paths that players take throughout their careers. The memories of that season, filled with exhilarating wins and the sheer brilliance of the team's attacking prowess, remain vivid. This squad will forever hold a special place in the hearts of Liverpool supporters.