Hyypia reveals exit reasoning

Hyypia: Reds stalwart

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Sami Hyypia admits he will find it tough to leave Liverpool, but claims he needs a new challenge.

The Reds stalwart has agreed a deal to join German outfit Bayer Leverkusen this summer, bringing to an end a decade of service at Anfield.

Snapped up for just £2.6million from Willem II, the Finnish centre-half has proven to be an astute piece of business for Liverpool over the years.

He has played an integral part in so many memorable moments for the club, including the epic 2005 UEFA Champions League victory over AC Milan.

All good things must come an end, though, and Hyypia insists he needs to move on in order to find regular first-team football in the twilight of his career.

"The main reason (for leaving) is I still think I'm young enough to play football and I know chances to play here would be limited," the 35-year-old told Liverpool's official website.

"I spoke to the manager (Rafa Benitez) and I didn't want him to make promises about how many games I would play, but this season has been mentally very difficult. I haven't played a lot and playing is what I enjoy most.

Package

"I understand it isn't possible to play enough games here for me to be happy, so I had to look elsewhere.

"I got the option to go abroad to Bayer Leverkusen. The whole package was good, they have big plans for me and hopefully I can go there and help them to be successful."

While admitting that leaving Liverpool will be a wrench, Hyypia has not ruled out the possibility of returning to the club in the future as a coach.

"Yes, hopefully," he said.

"Coaching is something which has always been in my mind, but I have to take my badges first.

"At the end of my playing career I will look to take the badges and then see. I would like to come back here one day as a coach."