Spanish goalkeeper Adrian had an emotional reunion with his old Liverpool teammates in Pittsburgh before their pre-season friendly against new club Real Betis. Adrian, who left Liverpool this month after five years with the club was back at Real Betis where he started his professional career. During this pre-season game he will have the opportunity to face Liverpool and align himself with Betis for what is coming in 2019/20.
Adrian made his return during Liverpool’s morning training session in the Steel City. Sensing an opening, he caught up with some of his old friends at the team hotel – providing a precious moment for both him and those he used to play alongside. It was also an opportunity for Adrian to properly say goodbye.
A feat he never accomplished before his future was sealed beyond the 2023-24 season. Adrian told Liverpoolfc: “Honestly, it was a little bit weird walking to the room with another kit, another colour… and one other badge in my chest. com.
Adrian has looked back on his time at Liverpool, insisting he remains ‘eternally grateful’ and that the experiences of being with a winning team will keep him warm for years to come ‘Guys, we had some really amazing moments over the last five years,’ I told them. Saw us win a few trophies together A little part of me wishes them all the best for trophies and medals,” he said. Adrian on the lasting impact Liverpool’s winning culture had both in his career and back home, from Spain.
Adrian’s decision to return to Real Betis is both personal and professional. “It was such a crazy summer,” he explained. Ultimately, that’s how life goes; I had to make up my mind with my heart. It was another family thing: we decided to go back home,” he said. All of these mean that his coming back to Betis signifies a full-circle moment in his career.
As Adrian looks forward towards the friendly at Acrisure Stadium, he admitted that it is quite unusual for him facing Liverpool so soon after leaving them behind. “I am excited about the game. It will feel odd playing against Liverpool because – just two months ago I was defending their badge you know.”
“But it is my time to defend another club,” he said. Despite the strangeness, he is excited about playing, training and showing off on both squads’ readiness for the coming season.
Adrian has a strong connection with Liverpool; he will never forget Liverpool’s memories and lessons learnt. “The club, the fans and this group will always be with me,” Adrian concluded. As he embarks on a new chapter with Real Betis, the friendly against Liverpool promises to be an emotional encounter that marries up Adrian’s illustrious football journey from past to present.
