Curtis Jones bids farewell to Liverpool after 16 years

Curtis Jones has drawn a line under 16 years at Liverpool, sealing a move to Inter Milan in a deal worth around £30m and closing a chapter that began when he walked into the academy as a boy with a dream.

He leaves as a 25-year-old with more than 200 senior appearances, 22 goals and six major honours to his name, including two Premier League titles. A squad player at times, a key contributor at others, but always unmistakably one of Liverpool’s own.

The scale of the moment hit home in his farewell message to supporters, shared on social media as the transfer was confirmed.

“After 16 years, it's time to say goodbye,” he wrote. “I came here as a kid with a dream of playing for Liverpool, and I've been lucky enough to actually live that dream.”

Those years have spanned almost his entire life to this point. He arrived as a teenager. He leaves as a father.

“This club is all I've ever known. I came here as a kid and I'm leaving as a man with a family of my own, which probably puts into perspective just how much of my life I've spent here.

“So much has happened during my time here, both on and off the pitch. I've made my debut, won trophies, made memories I'll never forget, and I've become a dad.”

That last part, he admitted, has changed how he sees the club and the city.

“Having my daughter while I've been here makes it even more special because Liverpool isn't just part of my story anymore, it's part of my family's story too.”

Jones used the rest of his message to work his way back through the years, name-checking the people who shaped him. He thanked the academy staff who first put him in a Liverpool shirt, the coaches who trusted him, the teammates who shared the dressing room and the staff behind the scenes at Anfield who rarely see the spotlight but keep the club moving.

“To all the lads I've shared a dressing room with over the years, thank you. I've played with some unbelievable players and made friendships I know I'll have for life,” he said.

Then came the line that will resonate most with those on the Kop.

“Thank you to the fans that stuck by me and always supported me. I will always be one of you.”

The move to Inter Milan marks a fresh start in a new league, a new country and a very different football culture. Jones did not hide his excitement about that step.

“Now it's time for a new challenge and a new chapter for me and my family, and I'm excited for what's ahead.

“But Liverpool will always be a massive part of me. I came here as a kid with a dream and I'm leaving having lived it.

“So genuinely, to everyone who has played any part in my 16 years here, thank you. I'll never forget it.

“YNWA.”

From academy hopeful to title winner, from Kirkby to the San Siro — Jones has lived the dream he talked about. The next one starts in Milan.