In a special edition of The Reds Roundtable, presented by Standard Chartered, Liverpool FC legends Steven Gerrard and Sami Hyypiä reunited with former manager Rafa Benitez to mark the 20th anniversary of the club’s unforgettable UEFA Champions League triumph in Istanbul.
The commemorative roundtable, hosted by renowned football presenter and Liverpool fan Vicky Gomersall, was filmed at the iconic St George’s Hall in Liverpool – adorned with club banners and memorabilia, setting the tone for a deeply emotional and nostalgic conversation.
The 2005 final, widely regarded as one of the greatest comebacks in football history, saw Liverpool overturn a 3-0 half-time deficit against AC Milan to eventually lift the club’s fifth European Cup. Two decades on, the trio looked back on the epic night that defined a generation of Reds supporters.
Reflecting on that historic night, former club captain Steven Gerrard spoke about the impact of the victory, especially on the people of Liverpool.
“The big moments we shared together, it affected so many lives especially here in the city, the country and beyond. To leave a legacy that we did is obviously a very proud feeling… I wish I could do it all again,” Gerrard said.
“I wouldn’t want to lose those special moments, I wouldn’t want them to be taken away, to start again. In terms of how lucky I was to live the dream as a Liverpool player; I’d go back to 17 years of age tomorrow,” he added.
Gerrard also lauded Rafa Benitez for his tactical leadership and calm presence throughout the 2004-05 European campaign.
“I’m not saying this because he’s sitting next to me, but the job that Rafa did in terms of where he took that team, the level of ability across the squad. For Rafa to guide us to win that European Cup is probably one of the best jobs you’ll see,” the Liverpool legend said.
Benitez, in turn, didn’t hold back in his praise for Gerrard, describing him as the most complete player he has ever coached – ahead of stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Samuel Eto’o, and Eden Hazard.
“They’ve asked me so many times which is the best player you’ve already coached. I have Ronaldo, Eto’o, Hazard, and always I say Stevie. Why? Because he has the potential so always when I explain, he was good in the air, he has power, pace and technical ability was good. As a player he was the best player I have coached because he has everything… he was more complete,” Benitez said.
Hyypiä, who marshalled the defence that night in Istanbul, spoke about the unity and belief within the squad, while also echoing the emotional pride of playing for Liverpool on such a grand stage.
The latest edition of the roundtable series is available on Liverpool FC’s official YouTube channel, alongside previous episodes offering rare insights into the club’s storied history.
As the city of Liverpool continues to revel in the legacy of that magical night in Istanbul, this reunion serves as a timely reminder of how football can create unforgettable memories and lasting bonds that transcend generations.
