Tyler Morton Honestly Reflects on Moment He Realized He 'Needed to Leave' Liverpool

In an emotional and candid interview, former Liverpool midfielder Tyler Morton opens up about his "difficult" departure from Anfield after 17 years, pinpointing the moment he knew a move was essential for his career growth. The 22-year-old, who joined Lyon for £15m in August, reflects on limited opportunities under manager Arne Slot and his successful adaptation in Ligue 1.[1][2][3]

Morton burst onto the scene under Jurgen Klopp, who "believed in me" and gave him crucial first-team minutes in the Premier League and Champions League in 2021. However, after loan spells at Blackburn and Hull City, his playing time dwindled last season. Slot saw him as "back-up," a role Morton accepted professionally but found unfulfilling: "I’ll be honest, it wasn’t ideal. I wanted to be starting games."[1][3]

A turning point came during Liverpool's pre-season tour in Japan. Despite interest from Bayer Leverkusen—managed by Xabi Alonso, who FaceTimed him—Morton pushed for a transfer. Liverpool urged him to stay, but after honest talks, they respected his ambitions. On August 5, he left the AXA Training Centre for France, sending heartfelt texts to academy staff amid mixed emotions: "I had been at the club for so long."[1][5]

At Lyon, Morton's decision has proven "a good decision." He's nearing last season's Liverpool appearance tally, praising Ligue 1's intensity akin to the Premier League. "To make yourself known, to develop, you have to play in different leagues," he told Le Progres. He loves the fans, teammates, and exciting times, with no regrets: "I wouldn’t change anything today."[2]

Morton credits Liverpool's handling, viewing his exit as mutual respect after staying professional without "kicking up a fuss." His form vindicates the move, echoing academy successes like Curtis Jones and Trent Alexander-Arnold, though his path led abroad.[2][5]

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