The 2005 Champions League final between Liverpool and AC Milan is etched in football history as one of the most dramatic and memorable matches ever played. Liverpool's unbelievable comeback from 3-0 down to win on penalties has become legendary. But what happened to the players who graced the pitch that night in Istanbul? Let's take a look at the Liverpool and AC Milan 2005 player lineups and find out where they are now.

Liverpool's Starting XI

Liverpool's squad that year was a mix of seasoned veterans and promising youngsters, carefully assembled by manager Rafael Benítez. Their journey to the final was unexpected, to say the least, but their performance that night secured their place in football folklore.

1. Jerzy Dudek (Goalkeeper): The hero of the penalty shootout, Dudek's saves from Andrea Pirlo and Andriy Shevchenko were crucial. After leaving Liverpool in 2007, he joined Real Madrid as a backup goalkeeper, where he remained until his retirement in 2011. Following his playing career, Dudek has been involved in various business ventures and has also pursued his passion for motorsports, participating in racing events. He remains a beloved figure among Liverpool fans.

2. Steve Finnan (Right-Back): Finnan was a reliable presence in Liverpool's defense. He left Liverpool in 2008 and played for Espanyol and Portsmouth before retiring in 2010. After football, Finnan has largely stayed out of the public eye, focusing on family and business interests. Information about his current activities is scarce, adding an air of mystery to his post-football life. He is remembered for his solid performances and contribution to Liverpool's success.

3. Jamie Carragher (Center-Back): A Liverpool legend, Carragher spent his entire professional career at Anfield. Since retiring in 2013, he has become a prominent football pundit for Sky Sports, known for his insightful analysis and passionate opinions. Carragher's commitment to Liverpool continues through his media work, where he often discusses the club's past, present, and future. He is also involved in charitable activities and remains a respected voice in the football community.

4. Sami Hyypiä (Center-Back): The towering Finnish defender was a rock at the heart of Liverpool's defense for a decade. After leaving Liverpool in 2009, he played for Bayer Leverkusen before retiring in 2011. Hyypiä transitioned into coaching, managing Bayer Leverkusen, Brighton & Hove Albion, and FC Zurich. While his managerial career has had its ups and downs, he remains a respected figure in football. He has since taken on various coaching roles and is often seen sharing his expertise in football analysis.

5. Djimi Traoré (Left-Back): Traoré had a mixed reputation among Liverpool fans but played his part in the Champions League run. He later played for Charlton Athletic, Portsmouth, and Marseille before retiring in 2014. After retiring, Traoré has worked as a coach and has been involved in youth development programs. He is keen to give back to the sport and help young players develop their skills. His career serves as a reminder that every player, regardless of their perceived limitations, can contribute to significant achievements.

6. Xabi Alonso (Midfielder): Alonso was the midfield maestro, dictating the play with his incredible passing range. He went on to play for Real Madrid and Bayern Munich, winning numerous titles. After retiring in 2017, Alonso moved into coaching, starting with Real Madrid's youth team. He then took over as the manager of Real Sociedad B before being appointed as the manager of Bayer Leverkusen. Alonso's tactical acumen and leadership skills have made him one of the most promising young managers in football.

7. Steven Gerrard (Midfielder): The Liverpool captain and heartbeat of the team, Gerrard's influence was immense. After a brief spell with LA Galaxy, he retired in 2016 and moved into coaching. He managed Liverpool's youth team before taking over as the manager of Rangers, where he led them to their first Scottish Premiership title in ten years. Gerrard then managed Aston Villa before becoming the manager of Al-Ettifaq. His legendary status at Liverpool remains untouched, and his managerial career is closely followed by fans worldwide.

8. John Arne Riise (Left Midfielder): Riise was known for his powerful left foot and attacking prowess. He left Liverpool in 2008 and played for Roma, Fulham, and Delhi Dynamos before retiring in 2017. After retiring, Riise has worked as a pundit and coach. He has also been involved in various media projects and remains a popular figure in Norway. Riise's passion for football continues, and he often shares his insights and experiences with fans.

9. Luis García (Right Midfielder): García was a fan favorite, known for his important goals in the Champions League. He played for Atlético Madrid and Racing Santander before retiring in 2014. After retiring, García has worked as a pundit and has been involved in various media projects. He is also an ambassador for Liverpool FC and frequently participates in club events. García's connection with Liverpool remains strong, and he is fondly remembered for his contributions to the team's success.

10. Harry Kewell (Forward): Kewell was a talented but injury-prone player. He played for Galatasaray and Melbourne Victory before retiring in 2014. After retiring, Kewell moved into coaching, managing Crawley Town, Notts County, and Oldham Athletic. His managerial career has been challenging, but he remains determined to succeed in the dugout. Kewell's playing career was marked by moments of brilliance, and he hopes to translate that into his coaching career.

11. Milan Baroš (Forward): Baroš was the striker leading the line for Liverpool. He later played for Aston Villa, Lyon, and Galatasaray before retiring in 2020. After retiring, Baroš has been involved in various business ventures and has also participated in amateur football. He remains a popular figure in the Czech Republic and is often seen at football events. Baroš's career was filled with memorable moments, and he is remembered for his contributions to both club and country.

AC Milan's Starting XI

AC Milan, managed by Carlo Ancelotti, boasted a star-studded lineup that was considered one of the best in Europe. Despite their dominance in the first half, they couldn't hold on to their lead, and Liverpool's resilience proved too much to handle.

1. Dida (Goalkeeper): Dida was a world-class goalkeeper at the peak of his career. He continued to play for Milan until 2010 and later had spells in Brazil before retiring in 2015. After retiring, Dida has worked as a goalkeeping coach, helping to develop the next generation of goalkeepers. His experience and expertise are highly valued, and he is considered one of the best goalkeeping coaches in the world.

2. Cafu (Right-Back): The legendary Brazilian right-back was a seasoned veteran. He retired in 2008 and has since been involved in various charitable activities and media projects. Cafu's contributions to football extend beyond his playing career, and he is committed to making a positive impact on society. He is also an ambassador for various organizations and uses his platform to promote important causes.

3. Alessandro Nesta (Center-Back): Nesta was one of the finest defenders of his generation. After leaving Milan in 2012, he played for Montreal Impact and Chennaiyin FC before retiring in 2014. Nesta transitioned into coaching, managing Miami FC in the North American Soccer League. He has since taken on various coaching roles and is highly regarded for his tactical knowledge and defensive expertise.

4. Jaap Stam (Center-Back): The towering Dutch defender brought strength and experience to Milan's defense. He retired in 2007 and moved into coaching, managing various clubs, including Reading and PEC Zwolle. Stam's managerial career has been marked by challenges, but he remains determined to succeed. His experience as a player has been invaluable in his coaching career, and he is respected for his leadership and tactical acumen.

5. Paolo Maldini (Left-Back): Maldini, an AC Milan icon, played his entire professional career for the club. He retired in 2009 and has since held various roles at AC Milan, including technical director. Maldini's dedication to AC Milan is unwavering, and he is committed to restoring the club to its former glory. His influence extends beyond his playing career, and he is considered one of the most important figures in the club's history.

6. Andrea Pirlo (Midfielder): Pirlo was the midfield maestro for Milan, known for his vision and passing ability. After leaving Milan, he played for Juventus and New York City FC before retiring in 2017. Pirlo moved into coaching, managing Juventus before being appointed as the manager of Sampdoria. His tactical brilliance and understanding of the game have made him a sought-after coach. Pirlo's playing career was marked by elegance and precision, and he hopes to bring the same qualities to his coaching career.

7. Gennaro Gattuso (Midfielder): Gattuso was the midfield enforcer, providing steel and determination. After retiring in 2013, he moved into coaching, managing various clubs, including AC Milan, Napoli, and Valencia. Gattuso's passion and intensity are evident in his coaching style, and he is known for his demanding approach. His experience as a player has been invaluable in his coaching career, and he is respected for his leadership and tactical acumen.

8. Clarence Seedorf (Midfielder): Seedorf was a dynamic midfielder with incredible technique and versatility. After retiring in 2014, he moved into coaching, managing AC Milan, Deportivo La Coruña, and Cameroon. Seedorf's coaching career has been challenging, but he remains determined to succeed. His experience as a player has been invaluable in his coaching career, and he is respected for his tactical knowledge and understanding of the game.

9. Kaká (Attacking Midfielder): Kaká was the Ballon d'Or winner and a world-class attacking midfielder. He played for Real Madrid and AC Milan before retiring in 2017. After retiring, Kaká has been involved in various charitable activities and media projects. He is also an ambassador for various organizations and uses his platform to promote important causes. Kaká's legacy as one of the greatest players of his generation remains intact, and he is admired for his sportsmanship and humility.

10. Andriy Shevchenko (Forward): Shevchenko was a prolific goalscorer and one of the deadliest strikers in the world. After retiring in 2012, he moved into politics and later became the manager of the Ukrainian national team. Shevchenko's managerial career has been marked by challenges, but he remains determined to succeed. His experience as a player has been invaluable in his coaching career, and he is respected for his leadership and tactical acumen.

11. Hernán Crespo (Forward): Crespo was a clinical finisher and a valuable asset to Milan's attack. After retiring in 2012, he moved into coaching, managing various clubs, including Modena and Banfield. Crespo's coaching career has been challenging, but he remains determined to succeed. His experience as a player has been invaluable in his coaching career, and he is respected for his tactical knowledge and understanding of the game.

The Liverpool and AC Milan 2005 player lineups were filled with legendary figures who have left an indelible mark on football. Their careers have taken different paths since that fateful night in Istanbul, but their contributions to the sport will always be remembered. From coaching to punditry to charitable work, these players continue to impact the world of football and beyond. The 2005 Champions League final remains a testament to their skill, determination, and the enduring magic of the beautiful game. So, there you have it, folks! A trip down memory lane to see where those legends are now. Pretty cool, huh?