Former Liverpool defender Mamadou Sakho has announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 35, bringing the curtain down on a career that included highs and lows during his spell at Anfield.
Sakho made 201 appearances for Paris Saint-Germain before joining Liverpool for a fee of approximately £18 million in September 2013, arriving as Brendan Rodgers looked to reshape his defensive options. The France international quickly became a popular figure on Merseyside thanks to his aggressive defending, strong aerial presence and unmistakable on-pitch personality.
He played a key role in the remarkable 2013/14 Premier League title challenge, forming part of a back line that underpinned the club’s thrilling, attack-minded approach. While the Reds ultimately fell agonisingly short, Sakho was praised for his contributions throughout the season.
Under Jürgen Klopp, Sakho enjoyed a renaissance during the 2015/16 campaign, delivering a series of outstanding performances, particularly in the Europa League, including a man-of-the match performance as captain against Bordeaux and a crucial goal against Borussia Dortmund in a 4-3 comeback win at Anfield in the Quarter Final second leg.
Although the Frenchman’s Liverpool career ended prematurely following a demotion to the reserves and an eventual move in to Crystal Palace in 2017, Sakho leaves behind fond memories of commitment and passion in the red shirt.
Une fin de carrière annoncée chez toi, au Parc !
Merci pour tout Mamad' ! ??? pic.twitter.com/0gXaCHqZYr
— Paris Saint-Germain (@PSG_inside) January 12, 2026
Sakho was capped 29 times for France, scoring two goals, and saw out his playing days for Montpellier and Georgian side Torpedo Kutaisi.
As he steps away from the game, Liverpool supporters will remember him as a cult hero of the modern era — a defender who embodied fight, heart and belief during some unforgettable nights at Anfield.
