Liverpool have officially confirmed that long-serving left-back Andy Robertson will depart the club when his contract expires at the end of the 2025-26 season. The announcement, made via the club’s website and social media channels, brings an end to a remarkable nine-year chapter at Anfield that saw the Scottish international become one of the most iconic full-backs in modern Premier League history.
Few players embodied the Jürgen Klopp era quite like Robertson. The rampaging Scot forged a devastating understanding with Sadio Mané on the left flank and later dovetailed effectively with Luis Díaz. Alongside Virgil van Dijk, he formed what was arguably the finest left-sided defensive partnership in world football during their peak years. Signed for a modest £8 million (prior to add-ons) from Hull City in 2017, Robertson will forever be remembered as one of the greatest bargains in Premier League history and one of Liverpool’s all-time elite full-backs.
During his time at the club, the 32-year-old lifted every major trophy available: two Premier League titles, the Champions League, an FA Cup, two League Cups, and additional silverware including the FIFA Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup, and Community Shield. With nearly 400 appearances for the Reds, Robertson’s relentless energy, attacking thrust, and leadership left an indelible mark on the club.
The writing had been on the wall since Liverpool signed Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth for around £40 million in the summer of 2025. The young Hungarian quickly established himself as Arne Slot’s preferred starter at left-back, with Robertson’s appearances limited as a result. While Kerkez’s debut season has been described as inconsistent by some observers, Slot’s clear preference for the newcomer signalled a shift in the pecking order.
Questions have inevitably arisen about why Liverpool are allowing a proven performer like Robertson to leave on a free transfer, especially given his enduring quality and experience. However, according to reliable reporter Ben Jacobs, the club never pursued a new contract for one straightforward reason: Robertson still sees himself as a regular starter — a demand Liverpool simply could not meet with Kerkez now entrenched in the role.
Jacobs reported on X: “Robertson’s exit both mutual and amicable with no steps taken to discuss a new contract. Excellent relationship between Robertson and Liverpool, as shown by the Scottish defender staying in January after his Spurs move fell through due to #LFC not finding a replacement. Robertson is looking to be a regular starter and with Liverpool unable to offer this, departing on a free made sense to all parties.”
The departure is understood to be entirely amicable, reflecting the strong mutual respect between player and club. In January, Tottenham came close to signing Robertson, but the move collapsed when Liverpool were unable to secure an adequate replacement. Robertson’s professionalism in choosing to remain until the end of the season was widely praised.
With his contract set to expire at the end of June, the Scotland captain is now free to explore his options. Tottenham are expected to renew their interest in the summer, assuming they maintain their Premier League status. Other potential destinations include boyhood club Celtic, where Robertson began his career, and Wrexham, who could view the experienced Scot as a high-profile statement signing with significant Premier League pedigree should they earn promotion via the play-offs.
In an emotional interview with Liverpool’s official channels, Robertson reflected on his time at the club: “It’s never easy leaving a club like Liverpool — it has been a huge part of mine and my family’s life for the last nine years… I know football moves on, and I think now is the time for me to move on.”
Robertson’s exit marks the end of an era, but his legacy at Anfield remains secure. From bargain buy to Champions League winner and title-collecting hero, the “rampaging Scot” will always be cherished by Liverpool supporters as one of the club’s greatest modern success stories.
As one door closes for Andy Robertson, another exciting chapter awaits — whether that be a return to Scotland, a move to north London, or elsewhere. Wherever he lands, few will forget the passion, commitment, and quality he brought to the left flank at Anfield.