Loris Karius has responded to Gary Neville’s recent admission of guilt over his harsh criticism of the former Liverpool goalkeeper, revealing mixed emotions about the pundit’s late apology.

Karius, who endured public scrutiny after his errors in the 2018 Champions League final, addressed Neville’s comments during an interview. The 31-year-old goalkeeper expressed gratitude for the acknowledgment but didn’t shy away from sharing the lingering impact of the ordeal.

Karius’s Reaction

“Apologies are always welcome, but in this case, the damage was already done,” Karius said. “When you’re a young player trying to find your footing, those kinds of public criticisms can weigh heavily. It’s not just about the game; it’s about how it affects your confidence, your career trajectory, and even your personal life.”

Neville, speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, had recounted a chance meeting with Karius in an Italian hotel gym, where he was struck by guilt for his prior comments. Karius, however, took the encounter in stride.

“When we met, I chose not to confront him,” Karius explained. “I said ‘nice to see you’ because holding onto negativity doesn’t help anyone. But that doesn’t mean the past can be erased. Words have power, especially from someone in his position.”

Neville’s Criticism Revisited

During Karius’s time at Liverpool, Neville famously declared, “Liverpool will never win the league with that guy in the net.” While Neville now admits that the comment was harsh, Karius argues it had lasting consequences.

“Comments like that stick with people,” Karius continued. “They follow you through your career, and it’s not just fans who remember—it’s clubs, coaches, and teammates. The narrative becomes bigger than the player, and it’s hard to shake off.”

Moving Forward

Karius has had a turbulent journey since leaving Liverpool, including a loan spell at Besiktas and a brief stint with Newcastle United. Currently without a club, he remains hopeful for the future.

“I’ve learned to focus on what I can control,” Karius said. “Mistakes happen, and I’ve owned up to mine. What matters now is what comes next.”

While Neville’s apology may have come too late to undo the damage, Karius’s response highlights the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. As he looks ahead, the former Liverpool goalkeeper remains determined to write a new chapter in his career.

For Karius, the lesson is clear: “Criticism can break you, or it can make you stronger. I’ve chosen the latter.”