Liverpool midfielder James Balagizi has officially confirmed that his long association with the club has come to an end, bringing an 11-year journey with the Reds to a close.
The 22-year-old joined Liverpool at Under-11 level and spent more than a decade progressing through the club’s academy system. Despite showing plenty of promise as a youngster, Balagizi was unable to make his senior debut for the first team.
Liverpool had already indicated earlier this year that Balagizi would leave after his contract expired. He was included among the academy players released by the club at the end of the 2025/26 season. (Liverpool)
Balagizi confirmed his departure himself on Instagram, sharing an emotional message reflecting on his time at Liverpool.
He thanked his teammates, coaches, staff and everyone who supported him throughout his journey, describing his time at the club as something he will always remember.
The midfielder’s career included loan spells at Crawley Town, Wigan Athletic, Kilmarnock and Forest Green Rovers. His spell at Crawley was particularly notable, as he made 16 appearances and scored three goals during the first half of the 2022/23 campaign. (Yardbarker)
Balagizi also came close to making his Liverpool first-team debut, being named on the senior bench twice during the 2021/22 season. He also featured for the Under-18 side that reached the FA Youth Cup final.
However, injuries and disrupted loan spells made it difficult for him to build the consistency needed to break into the first team. His latest loan spell at Forest Green was also cut short.
Despite the disappointing end to his Liverpool journey, the 22-year-old still has time to restart his career and prove his quality elsewhere. Liverpool continued to support him with training at the AXA Training Centre even after his contract had expired while he looked for his next opportunity. (Yardbarker)
Balagizi leaves Liverpool without making a competitive first-team appearance, but his 11 years at the club remain a significant part of his football development.
A new chapter now begins for James Balagizi.
Do you think Balagizi could still build a successful career away from Liverpool?
