Joel Matip, who plays as a defender for Liverpool in Premier League, was born on August 8th, 1991 in Bochum, Germany. Joel’s father Jean Matip initially worked as a chemistry teacher before venturing into soccer in Cameroon. He later moved to Germany with a chemistry degree.
Joel’s football journey started with SC Weitmar 45 before joining VfL Bochum in 1997. Following three years within VfL Bochum’s youth teams he caught the attention of Schalke 04 scouts in July 2000. Joel’s father played a role, in introducing him to the sport even while he was attending Gesamtschule Berger Feld school. He embarked on his football journey, in 2009 with Schalke 04 a club where he developed his skills and gained recognition.
His first appearance against Bayern Munich does not mark his debut in the Bundesliga. Also showcased his talent as he scored the equalizing goal earning him the title of ‘man of the match’. Matip’s consistent performances ensured his role in the team’s midfield throughout the 2009 2010 season.
The 2010 and 2011 season was a milestone in Matip’s career as he made his debut in the UEFA Champions League and played a role in Schalke reaching their first-ever semifinals.
He scored his Champions League goal during a quarter-final match against Inter Milan contributing to Schalke’s impressive 5 2 victory. Matip further solidified his reputation as a player with a performance in the 2011 DFB Pokal Final. In 2016 Matip took a career turn by signing a four-year contract agreement with Liverpool.
His move to Liverpool marked the beginning of a period where he achieved triumphs such as winning the UEFA Champions League in 2019 and securing the Premier League title during the 2019 2020 season.
Throughout his career Matip has amassed accolades that exemplify not only his skill but also his valuable contributions, to each team he has been part of.
Joel Matip has achieved feats throughout his football career. Notably, he was part of the Liverpool team that won the UEFA Champions League in the 2018/19 season and contributed to their victory, in the FIFA Club World Cup in 2020. Additionally, Matip played a role in Liverpool’s success as they secured the English Premier League title during the 2019/20 season.
During his time at Schalke 04 Matip accomplished milestones, including winning the DFB Pokal (German Cup) in the 2010/11 season. Recently Matip has added accolades to his name with Liverpool. In 2022 he helped them win both the English FA Cup and the English League Cup. Furthermore, he played a role in securing victories for Liverpool in both the English Super Cup (2023) and UEFA Super Cup (2019/20 season).
Despite these triumphs, Matip has experienced some misses as well. For instance, he reached the Champions League final with Liverpool during the 2017/18 season. Ended up as runners-up. Likewise, while playing for Schalke 04 during the 2009/10 season, they finished as runners-up in the German Bundesliga.
However, these experiences have only fuelled Joel Matip’s determination to strive for success.
Overall, Joel Matip’s impressive career spans across clubs and international competitions.
In terms of clubs played for;
Schalke 04 (2009 2016); Joel began his journey with Schalke 04 back, in 2009. He was a member of their teams that achieved victory, in the DFB Pokal and DFL Super Cup in 2011. On November 2009 he made his debut in the Bundesliga for Schalke against Bayern Munich, where he scored the game-tying goal and was honored as the man of the match.
After his start with the team, Matip continued to be a regular starter for Schalke in defensive midfield throughout the remainder of the 2009 10 season scoring two additional goals against 1. FC. Eintracht Frankfurt. On March 2010 Matip signed a contract with Schalke 04 that lasted for three and a half years.
Liverpool (2016 Present); Matip announced in February 2016 that he had signed a contract agreement to join Liverpool on a free transfer for four years after his contract with Schalke expired. Prior, to moving to Liverpool in 2016 he had accumulated a total of 258 appearances. Scored 23 goals.
At Liverpool, he was part of the team that won the UEFA Champions League in 2019 starting in the match. He also achieved success by winning both the UEFA Super Cup and Premier League titles during the season of 2019 20.
Joel Matip stats in the Premier League:
| Appearances | 150 |
| Wins | 97 |
| Goals | 9 |
| Tackles | 221 |
| Clearances | 558 |
| Interceptions | 206 |
Joel Matip is reported to have an estimated worth of approximately $20 million.
Joel Matip married his long-time partner Larissa Stollenwerk in June 2021 and they welcomed their first child to the house. Joel has a sister named Rebecca who excels as a dermatologist in Gelsenkirchen. Additionally, he has a brother named Marvin Matip who also happens to be involved in football.
In conclusion, Joel Matip’s journey, from his days in Bochum, Germany to becoming a regarded football player is a true testament to his commitment, talent, and resilience.
Throughout his career, which included stints at clubs like FC Schalke 04 and Liverpool FC he consistently showcased performances and made significant contributions. Matip’s family, his brother Marvin has played a role in both his personal and professional life.
Despite experiencing fame and success Matip has managed to remain grounded by prioritizing his love for football over any increase in wealth. The remarkable statistics of his career speak volumes about the skills he possesses.
