Former Liverpool star Adam Lallana confirms summer exit with next job already in the works

Former Liverpool star Adam Lallana has announced he will leave Brighton this summer, leading to speculation about his future in professional football.

Lallana left Liverpool to join Brighton in 2020 after spending six years at Anfield. The 36-year-old made 178 appearances for the Reds, scoring two goals and playing vital roles in the side that won four major trophies in 12 months, including the Premier League and Champions League.

Since joining Brighton, Lallana has made 103 appearances for the Seagulls, including 29 in all competitions this term. Now the former Liverpool star has announced he will leave the Amex Stadium at the end of the season, with the club’s final games coming up against Manchester United and Chelsea.

“It was a difficult decision but it feels like the right time, not just for me but for the club,” Lallana told Brighton’s club website. “I have been in discussions with Roberto (De Zerbi) for the last two months and he expressed his desire for me to stay and continue to play.

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“However, after taking some time to think about where the football club is and being away from my family for the last four years, I feel the time is right.

“I talked to my family throughout the year and the biggest influence on my decision was my kids, who need me a bit more at their age. I feel it’s time in my life and career to put them first.

“Last week I told Roberto, the club and my teammates, who are extremely important to me. Now I just want to enjoy my last week, get some really positive results and finish the season on a high.”

With Lallana’s departure confirmed, speculation is likely to swirl around what could be next for the former Liverpool star. There have been no rumors yet of a potential next club for the former Southampton captain, and there may also be talk of a possible retirement.

Should Lallana decide to call time on his playing career, it is possible that he could make the step up into coaching. The former Reds No.20 already has experience of managing in the Premier League, having been appointed interim manager at Brighton following Graham Potter’s departure in September 2022.

Lallana held the position alongside Andrew Crofts until Roberto De Zerbi was confirmed as manager a few weeks later. It remains to be seen whether Lallana will make the step up into coaching this summer or if he is keen to continue his playing career.