Liverpool have announced that Maxi Rodriguez has left the club and returned to his native South America to re-sign for Newell's Old Boys.
Argentine winger heads home to sign for Newell's Old Boys
Liverpool have announced that Maxi Rodriguez has left the club and returned to his native South America to re-sign for Newell's Old Boys.
The 31-year-old forward has headed back to his homeland after deciding against prolonging his stay in England.
Maxi arrived at Anfield from Atletico Madrid in January 2010 and made 73 appearances for the club, scoring 17 goals.
His hard-working approach to the game and keen eye for goal made him a favourite among the Kop faithful.
He was, however, unable to hold down a regular starting role and grew increasingly frustrated at a lack of opportunities.
Contribution
It was expected that he would be on the move this summer, even after Brendan Rodgers replaced Kenny Dalglish in the Reds hot-seat.
Rodgers had expressed a desire to keep Maxi on Merseyside, but was always aware that a return to Argentina would appeal to the experienced winger.
Maxi has re-joined Newell's, the club that helped him to launch a successful career, after 10 years in Europe - during which time he has turned out for Espanyol, Atletico and Liverpool.
"Liverpool Football Club can today confirm that Maxi Rodriguez has joined Newell's Old Boys in Argentina," read a statement released on the club's
official website.
"Everyone at Liverpool FC would like to thank Maxi for his contribution to the club and wish him all the best for the future."
Honour
Before leaving Anfield, Maxi addressed Liverpool's supporters in an open letter.
It read: "Dear Reds, I am leaving Liverpool FC today.
"Before signing for LFC, I just saw the club as one of the greatest institutions in football. After my time here I can confirm that this is not just a great club but also a great family.
"I have tried to give everything every day that I was wearing the LFC crest. It has been a great honour to defend this shirt during two and a half years. I am returning home with a suitcase full of great memories, good friends within the team and also within this great family that works every day in the club.
"Thanks a lot for your support. You can NOT imagine what a great honour it was for me when the Kop sang, 'Maxi, Maxi Rodríguez runs down the wing for me da da da da dada...'
"Hasta la vista."
