Xabi Alonso says joining Liverpool was the making of him.
The 35-year-old will be joining his fellow Bayern Munich team-mate Philipp Lahm into retirement at the end of the season.
Alonso said: “For me, my time in England was spectacular. I was 22, it was my finest experience coming from my home town and the first moment that I was living on my own.
“Before that I was living with my parents with everything in the neighbourhood.
“It was like when I became an adult, when I became a professional, and when I started challenging for things.
“My first year at Liverpool was very special. All the mystique, the tradition and the history of the club.
“From the first day you realise how big it is. And I was lucky enough to play a fantastic final! And to win that Champions League. Most of the people will remember."
Source: tribalfootball.com