Ex-Liverpool forward's Saudi Pro League future plunged into doubt | OneFootball

Former Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino will not be able to play in the Saudi Pro League again this season after Al Ahli opted to replace him in their 25-player squad.

The Brazilian headed for the Middle East in July 2023 after penning a lucrative three-year contract, bringing the curtain down on a hugely successful Liverpool career that saw Firmino win seven trophies under Jurgen Klopp, including the Champions League and Premier League.

Firmino hasn't had the expected impact at Al Ahli, mustering a return of 14 goals in 49 Saudi Pro League appearances, and the club signed Ivan Toney in the summer to add additional firepower to a frontline that also includes former Manchester City winger Riyad Mahrez.

Al Ahli splashed the cash towards the end of the January transfer window, spending €50m on Porto forward Galeno, and had a decision to make over who to register for the remainder of the Saudi Pro League season.

Only 10 foreign players can be registered in a 25-player squad, of which two must be aged 21 or under, and Al Ahli have opted to leave Firmino out of their plans.

"It was a difficult decision for the club and based on the rules," Al Ahli boss Matthias Jaissle said of the call. "We appreciate him and he dealt with it professionally. He's still one of our leaders."

Firmino will still be able to play for Al Ahli in the AFC Champions League if picked, but his exclusion from Saudi Pro League action suggests his time at the club - despite having a year left on his contract - may be coming to an end given he earns a significant amount of money each week.