Divock Origi: Released by Nottingham, unwanted by Milan, what next for ex-Liverpool forward?

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Divock Origi: Released by Nottingham, unwanted by Milan, what next for ex-Liverpool forward?

Joel Omotto 17:16 - 24.05.2024

Divock Origi finds himself at crossroads again following his release by Nottingham Forest with his parent club AC Milan not interested in retaining him.

Belgian striker Divock Origi finds himself facing an uncertain future after being released by Premier League side Nottingham Forest at the end of the 2023-24 season.

Origi was among a number of players released by Forest after an underwhelming season that saw them avoid relegation by a whisker.

It sees the striker return to his parent club AC Milan where he was already surplus to requirements one year ago, necessitating the loan move to Forest.

The 29-year-old joined Milan as a free agent in the summer of 2022 and was handed a four-year contract worth €4 million per season but things went south very quickly.

Origi failed to impress at San Siro, scoring just two goals in 36 matches across all competitions, and Milan lost patience immediately.

Outgoing Milan coach Stefano Pioli made him surplus to requirements and the club put him on the market after just one year in Italy. Buyers were, however, not forthcoming and the club and the player had to contend with a loan spell at Forest.

The ex-Liverpool striker, however, endured another disappointing season, scoring just one goal in 22 matches for the Premier League side, and there were no surprises when he was released.

With two years still remaining on his Milan contract, Origi is now at crossroads again as he returns to a club that does not want him.

If he stays, there are no guarantees that incoming coach Paulo Fonseca will offer him a rebirth. Milan therefore have to make a decision to either terminate his deal or find a buyer. Another loan move could also be beneficial for both sides.

Origi’s tribulations have seen him lose his spot in the Belgium national team and he cannot afford another spell where he is a bit-part player if he still desires to return to the national team.

The forward was close to moving to MLS side Los Angeles FC in January but a deal did not materialise and there could be interest again from America this summer.

However, at 29, Origi is still good enough to continue scoring goals in Europe as it would also offer him the visibility that he needs for a return to the national team.

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