London, May 26 -- Liverpool defender Rhys Williams has confirmed he will leave the club at the end of June, bringing an end to a 16-year association with the Premier League side after his contract expires next month.

The 25-year-old centre-back announced his departure through a heartfelt social media message on Monday, reflecting on a journey that began when he joined Liverpool's academy as a nine-year-old.

"From signing as a nine-year-old boy, to leaving as a 25-year-old man. This club has let me fulfil things that dreams are made of," Williams wrote.

He further added, "It's been an honour to wear this shirt, rub shoulders with legends and play for the greatest set of fans in the world. Thank you to all the players, staff and everyone...