FORMER Liverpool star Ozan Kabak has made an emotional return to the pitch after more than 500 days out with injury.
Kabak, 25, played for Liverpool on loan from Schalke in the 2020/21 season, arriving as central defensive cover amid a centre-half injury crisis for then Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp with Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip all in the treatment room.
He arrived alongside Preston’s Ben Davies, who later completed a permanent transfer to the Reds.
Turkish defender Kabak returned to Germany that summer before a loan transfer to Norwich followed.
Once again he returned to his parent club before being sold to Hoffenheim in 2022.
However, in June 2024, Kabak suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury.
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But after a frustrating 16 months on the sideline, Kabak finally made his return to the pitch by coming on during Hoffenheim’s 3-0 win over St Pauli in the Bundesliga on Sunday.
He was given a warm reception by fans as he marked the match with an emotional post on social media following the game.
Taking to Instagram, Kabak detailed his ordeal.
He said: “502 days later… It’s hard to put into words what’s happened during this time. Since my injury, there have been highs and lows, both mentally and physically.
“I’ve played football for as long as I can remember; it’s all I’ve ever known. Being unable to play gave me time to reflect on how much I truly love this game and what a privilege it is to play it professionally.
“My recovery wasn’t a straight line. It involved countless hospital visits, managing expectations, staying resilient, and at times, dealing with self-doubt. Those who’ve been through this journey will understand.
“I’m grateful to be returning to the game as a stronger and more mature player, ready to give everything on the pitch alongside my teammates once again.
“To my family, doctors, club, and friends, thank you for standing by me when it mattered most and for your constant encouragement.”
Congratulations and well wishes came in from across football.
Ex-Premier League stars Bafetimbi Gomis, Cenk Tosun and Okay Yokoslu were among those to react to the post, sharing emojis.
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