Former Liverpool defender set to wear red again as Dortmund clash approaches
Liverpool’s yearly charity match is beginning to come together, but the latest announcement suggests there’s more to this occasion than simply rolling out familiar faces.
The club has revealed five additional former players for March’s Legends game at Anfield, according to the Liverpool FC Foundation.
Sami Hyypia is set to don the red shirt once again when Liverpool Legends take on Borussia Dortmund Legends on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in aid of the club’s official charity. The ex-centre-back enjoyed a decade at Anfield, making 464 appearances, scoring 35 times and playing a key role in the unforgettable Champions League triumph of 2005.
He will be accompanied by Fabio Aurelio, Gregory Vignal, Martin Kelly and Yossi Benayoun, all of whom have featured in previous Legends fixtures.
Why this Legends match is about more than memories
The fixture is once again being held to support the LFC Foundation and Forever Reds, with every penny raised going towards programmes focused on employability, education and mentoring. The funds will contribute to the Foundation’s goal of supporting 500,000 people each season by 2030.
Aurelio’s inclusion marks the return of Liverpool’s first Brazilian signing, while Vignal is still fondly recalled for his goal in last year’s Legends match against Ajax. Kelly and Benayoun were both involved in the recent victory over Chelsea Legends at Stamford Bridge, reinforcing that this is a competitive contest rather than a simple exhibition.
They will join Jerzy Dudek, Pepe Reina and Sander Westerveld among the goalkeeping options for the 3pm GMT kick-off at Anfield.
Liverpool vs Dortmund and the unavoidable Klopp conversation
Whenever Liverpool and Dortmund cross paths, attention inevitably shifts beyond the football. The two clubs share deep connections through historic European encounters and one famous comeback, prompting speculation over whether Jurgen Klopp might feature in some way.
That intrigue has only intensified as discussion has resurfaced around Klopp’s two former clubs meeting again at Anfield. Meanwhile, reaction in Germany has highlighted how complex that relationship remains, particularly following reports of a strong Dortmund response to the former Liverpool manager’s recent role with Red Bull.
Whatever the talking points on the day, the spotlight ultimately stays on the cause. Tickets are now on general sale, with proceeds once again supporting the Foundation’s vital work across the city and further afield.
