Former England midfielder Adam Lallana has officially retired from professional football at the age of 37, drawing the curtain on a distinguished career that spanned nearly two decades.
Lallana, who earned 34 caps for the Three Lions, came through the Southampton academy and made his senior debut in 2006. He went on to make nearly 300 appearances across two spells with the Saints, helping the club achieve back-to-back promotions from League One to the Premier League and serving as captain before his high-profile move to Liverpool in 2014.
At Anfield, Lallana became an integral part of Jurgen Klopp’s squad, winning the UEFA Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League title in 2020. His technical ability, work rate, and versatility made him a key figure during Liverpool’s resurgence as a European powerhouse.
Following his Liverpool stint, Lallana spent four seasons at Brighton & Hove Albion before returning to Southampton in 2024. Though his playing time was limited during his second spell, he transitioned into a coaching role—an area he is expected to pursue further under new Saints manager Will Still.
Reflecting on his career, Lallana leaves behind a legacy marked by elegance on the ball, leadership, and professionalism both on and off the pitch.
“As I call time on my playing career, I do so with an overwhelming sense of gratitude and pride,” Lallana said on his social media accounts.
“Southampton… the place where it all started, and fittingly where it ends. It’s the club I ultimately owe everything to.”
“I’m proud of the playing career I’ve had and have no regrets about any of it,” Lallana added.
“I embrace all the highs and all the lows as they’ve shaped me into who I am.
“To everyone who made the journey so special, the staff at each club and organisation, the managers and coaches, my teammates, and of course the supporters — thank you.
“But most of all, to my own team… my family. My wife Emily, our amazing sons, my mum, dad and sister, thank you for putting up with me and being in my corner through it all.
“I’m excited for whatever the future brings.”