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Divock Origi Explains Why He Rejected Bayern Munich to Join Liverpool

He appreciated the culture at Melwood when he visited in 2014.

Jan Kruger/Getty Images

While Liverpool suffered a disappointing 2-2 draw against West Ham on Sunday, 21-year-old striker Divock Origi netted an equalizer to mark his fourth consecutive appearance with a goal. Even though it came from a goalkeeping mistake, it was encouraging to see him continue his scoring form.

As the young forward continues to work his way into a full-time role with the first team, he took time to discuss how he joined the club. After the 2014 World Cup he was a hot commodity, but the Reds were gain his signature over a couple of notable teams.

Origi said the culture at Liverpool made an immediate impression on him, which pushed him to choose an ongoing project with the Reds over a side that would dominate right away.

"There were offers from everywhere," Origi said (via the Echo). "Bayern were interested, all these clubs. But I came to Liverpool, I saw the facilities, I took some time out of my vacation to visit Melwood and speak with (then manager) Brendan Rodgers.

"When I came in, everyone knew my name, they knew who I was and they were looking at a video of me even from the under-15s. They knew about my qualities and when I saw the values of the club - passing, pressing, fast players - I was like: ‘this is the place I want to go.'"

After becoming a member of the Reds, Origi did not regret his decision. He realized he made the right call during a preseason tour.

"When I first came in to Liverpool, I realized quickly what an immense club this is," Origi said. "We went to Malaysia, and it was very nice to see because you see how big players maintain their level, the work they put in, the professionalism and how strikers are working."

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