Liverpool cult hero looks unrecognizable with tattoos and bushy beard

Patrik Berger was a key player in Liverpool's treble-winning squad during the 2000-01 season, but he now sports a new look, having retired from soccer 15 years ago

Patrik Berger looks very different compared to his playing days(Image: Getty Images)

Once renowned for his long-range strikes and flowing locks, former Liverpool midfielder Patrik Berger now sports a markedly different appearance.

The Czech soccer player, who was recognized for his preference for long-sleeved shirts during his time at Anfield, now proudly displays tattooed arms. The 52-year-old, who hasn't worn the Reds' jersey in over two decades, has traded his clean-cut image for a more rugged look, complete with a full beard.

This transformation is bound to challenge the image fans have held of him. Berger was an integral part of Gerard Houllier's squad that secured the treble during the 2000-01 season. During his seven-year tenure on Merseyside, he made 198 appearances and scored 28 goals, nearly half of which were from beyond 18 yards.

The international star, who earned 42 caps, enjoyed a distinguished career that included stints at Sparta Prague, Borussia Dortmund, Portsmouth, Aston Villa, and Stoke City before retiring in 2010.

Post-retirement, he played as an amateur for sixth-tier Czech Republic club Dolni Chabry.

Berger's Liverpool journey concluded on a bitter note due to knee injuries that restricted him to just four appearances, pushing him down the pecking order in his final season.

Patrick Berger and former teammate Gary McAllister(Image: Instagram/patrikbergerofficial)

Despite scoring against Liverpool in his first match facing them, Berger looks back at his time with the club fondly.

"You have to live for the day, and I enjoyed my time at Liverpool," he reminisced about his successful stint. "On the pitch, 2001 was amazing, we won five trophies, qualified for the Champions League in the final game of the season.

"It was an unbelievable season, great squad, the camaraderie was brilliant, this really helped get over the time. Everything just clicked in those final matches.

"You need luck, and we got the luck, but the squad was all connected, all fighting for each other, and all had the same belief that we could win.

Patrik Berger after catching a fish(Image: Instagram/patrikbergerofficial)

"Looking at the FA Cup Final, Michael [Owen]'s pace was electric, and if any of us could find the pass, he would get onto it. His left foot wasn't his strongest, but he took the goal so well, beating two Arsenal defenders.

"Arsenal were the better team that day, but as I said, we rode our luck, stayed in the game, and managed to win. It was a year I won't forget, with so many great memories and many friends I made for life.

"The highlight of my career was signing for Liverpool, first off. This was a dream that had come true, signing for such a great club. I loved my time at Liverpool, and to still be involved with the club is great."

Following his retirement from professional football, Berger has continued to play an active role in the sport.

He founded the Patrik Berger football agency, which has gone on to represent high-profile players including Bayer Leverkusen's Patrik Schick and Ondrej Penxa.