A Star’s Unexpected Struggle
Ryan Babel, the former Liverpool star, is facing a personal crisis that could see him lose his cherished Merseyside home. The Dutch forward, now 38, enjoyed a fruitful four-year stint with the Reds from 2007 to 2011, making 146 appearances and scoring 22 goals. Despite his success on the pitch, off-field issues have now brought him to a challenging juncture. Babel, who has had a storied career across various European leagues, recently took to social media to share his plight with his 730,000 followers. He detailed the series of unfortunate events that have put his Merseyside home at risk.
The House That Babel Built
In 2007, Babel bought a beautiful old house in Liverpool for approximately £1.25 million. He recalls that the purchase was facilitated by a 90% mortgage from the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS), requiring him to make a 10% down payment. The interest rates were favorable, allowing him to make monthly mortgage payments of just £1,050. For nearly 16 years, the bank deducted these payments without any issues, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free financial arrangement. Babel’s life was secure, and the house became more than just a property; it was a symbol of his success in the city he called home.
The Changing Tide
However, the tides began to turn when Babel’s football career led him to relocate. As he moved to different countries, including Germany, Spain, Turkey, and eventually the Netherlands, he maintained his Liverpool home as a connection to his past. The problem arose when RBS, the bank managing his mortgage, changed its policies. The bank decided it no longer wanted to hold accounts for individuals who did not reside in the UK. Babel, unaware of this shift, did not receive the physical letters sent to his Liverpool address, which informed him that he had a limited time to clear his funds before his account would be closed.
The Inconvenience of Distance
Babel first learned of the issue in January when he was prompted to visit a physical RBS branch to resolve the matter. Given his busy schedule and residence in Istanbul, he was only able to do so in April 2024. Upon visiting the branch, he was informed that he needed to file a fund release form to access the funds in his closed account. The process was further complicated by the fact that he could no longer hold an RBS account. Babel’s attempts to resolve the issue have been met with bureaucratic hurdles, as the bank claims to be unable to locate him in their system. This labyrinthine process has left him increasingly frustrated and anxious about the future of his home.
A Growing Crisis
As Babel’s arrears continue to pile up, the possibility of losing his home looms large. He fears that the bank may soon take legal action, claiming that he has not made mortgage payments for months. Despite the financial setback, Babel is determined to cover his arrears and resume his payments. His retirement from football in November last year has added a new layer of complexity to his life, but he remains committed to salvaging the situation. The Merseyside home has become more than just a financial asset; it is a piece of his history and a symbol of his time at Liverpool, a club he holds dear.
Seeking Resolution
RBS is currently in discussions with Ryan Babel to find a resolution to the issue. The bank’s engagement is a positive sign, though the situation remains precarious. SunSport has reached out to RBS for further comment, and the hope is that a mutually agreeable solution can be found. Babel’s transparency in sharing his struggle highlights the often-unseen challenges that even successful athletes face. His story serves as a reminder that financial security is a delicate balance, and vigilance is crucial in maintaining it. As Babel fights to keep his home, he hopes for a resolution that honors the memories and the investment he made in the city of Liverpool.
