Liverpool midfielder James Balagizi has officially confirmed his departure from the club, bringing an emotional end to an 11-year journey that began when he was just 11 years old.
The 22-year-old midfielder joined Liverpool’s academy at Under-11 level and worked his way through the club’s youth ranks. Despite showing promise during his development, Balagizi was unable to secure a regular place in the senior team.
His exit had already been expected after Liverpool confirmed earlier this summer that he was among the academy players whose contracts would expire.
Balagizi Sends Emotional Farewell Message
Balagizi officially announced his departure on social media, reflecting on his time at Liverpool and thanking the people who supported him throughout his development.
The midfielder described representing Liverpool for more than a decade as an honour and admitted that his time at the club had provided him with valuable experiences and lessons.
He also thanked his former teammates, coaches, staff and supporters while signing off with the club’s famous “You’ll Never Walk Alone” message.
Loan Spells Defined His Senior Career
Although Balagizi never made a competitive first-team appearance for Liverpool, he gained valuable experience through several loan moves.
The midfielder spent time with Crawley Town, Wigan Athletic, Kilmarnock and Forest Green Rovers.
His most productive spell came at Crawley Town during the first half of the 2022-23 season, where he made 16 appearances and scored three goals.
Balagizi was also named on Liverpool’s senior bench on two occasions and featured for the Under-18 side that reached the FA Youth Cup final in 2021.
However, injuries and disrupted loan spells made it difficult for him to establish the consistency needed to push for a first-team opportunity at Anfield.
A New Beginning Could Be Exactly What He Needs
Balagizi’s departure highlights the difficult journey faced by academy players attempting to break into Liverpool’s senior squad.
The midfielder was once considered a promising talent within the academy, but injuries and inconsistent loan opportunities slowed his development.
His latest spell with Forest Green Rovers was also cut short in January, with Liverpool confirming that he had returned to the club after spending the first half of the 2025-26 campaign there.
Interestingly, Balagizi continued training at Liverpool’s AXA Training Centre in July despite his contract having expired, as the club supported him while he looked for his next opportunity.
At 22, however, Balagizi still has plenty of time to rebuild his career.
A fresh start away from Anfield could give the former Liverpool academy midfielder the opportunity to regain his confidence, stay fit and finally show the potential he demonstrated during his younger years.
Liverpool supporters will undoubtedly wish him well as he begins the next chapter of his professional career.