Michael Owen, the iconic former England and Liverpool footballer, recently revealed his discomfort with fame towards the end of his career. In an interview with Adam Peacock for Stan Sport, to be aired after the Champions League final, the 45-year-old reflected on his remarkable journey from a teenage star to a reluctant player at the tail end of his career.
Owen made a stunning entry into professional football at just 18 during the 1998 World Cup in France, quickly establishing himself as a key player with his exceptional speed and dribbling skills. Over his illustrious career, he netted 40 goals for England and an impressive 118 during his time at Liverpool. However, as Owen reminisced, he felt that he was performing better at a younger age than he was as he grew older. He remarked, “I literally was better at 17 than I was at 28,” highlighting a career trajectory that defied expectations.
Throughout the interview, Owen expressed the joys of performing at the peak of his abilities, relishing the moments of scoring and leading his team. Yet, as injuries began to plague him, impacting his speed and overall enthusiasm for the game, he faced a significant shift. He admitted that by the end of his career, the name on his jersey felt more like a burden than a badge of honour. “It said Michael Owen on my back, but it wasn’t Michael Owen… I was half the player that I was when I was younger,” he lamented.
Owen’s career spanned multiple clubs after his time at Liverpool, including spells with Real Madrid, Newcastle United, Manchester United, and Stoke City. His retirement at 33 marked the end of an era that left a lasting impression on football fans worldwide. Injuries led to a disconnection from the sport he once loved, making it difficult for him to reconcile his previous glory with his current struggles on the field.
As viewers prepare to watch the full interview on Stan Sport, Owen’s candid reflections may resonate deeply with those who have experienced the highs and lows of competitive sport. The interview will also provide context surrounding his career and the impact it has had on both his life and the sport itself.