Former Red Set To Leave Saudi After Delivering First-Ever AFC Champions League Title | OneFootball

Roberto Firmino’s Resilient Saudi Sojourn Ends with Silverware and a Statement

High Hopes in the Desert Heat

When Roberto Firmino departed Liverpool in the summer of 2023, he left behind an Anfield legacy steeped in trophies, smiles, and samba-infused brilliance. His move to Al Ahli was more than a change of scenery—it symbolised a new era of footballing ambition in the Middle East. The Saudi Pro League’s big-money drive for global relevance saw Firmino arrive as one of its marquee stars, a headline-grabbing addition in a landscape craving prestige.

The league’s mission was clear: invest heavily in elite talent, elevate the domestic game, and place Saudi football on the global map. Firmino was expected to be front and centre. But like many bold footballing adventures, this one didn’t unfold exactly as planned.

Fall from Favour, Rise to Glory

Midway through his debut season, Firmino found himself cut from Al Ahli’s domestic squad after the arrival of Wenderson Galeno tipped their foreign player count to 11—one above the league’s cap. Head coach Matthias Jaissle had a decision to make. Firmino, one of the most recognisable names in the squad, was surprisingly the casualty.

It was a stark turn for a player of his calibre. His league appearances vanished, limited only to continental competitions where foreign player rules were more flexible.

Yet Firmino didn’t sulk. He didn’t down tools. Instead, he channelled his energies into Al Ahli’s AFC Champions League Elite campaign—and what followed was extraordinary.

Champions League Star Turn

Six goals. Seven assists. A tournament that will now carry his fingerprints in club folklore.

In the final against Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale, Firmino assisted both goals in a 2–0 victory. It sealed Al Ahli’s first-ever AFC Champions League title and earned him the tournament’s Most Valuable Player award.

It was a personal triumph forged from professional adversity—a demonstration of resilience that reaffirms Firmino’s value well beyond league quotas.

Quiet Exit, Loud Legacy

Ysscores revealed that Al Ahli and Firmino have now agreed to part ways. “Khalid Al-Ghamdi, the president of Al Ahli Saudi Club, announced reaching a final agreement with Brazilian star Roberto Firmino to end his contract with the team following the current season, after a comprehensive financial agreement.”

“Al-Ghamdi confirmed that the two parties reached a financial settlement that satisfies both sides, paving the way for Firmino to leave the team without any disputes, in an official step to close the chapter on the player with ‘Al-Raqi’.”

This is not a story of failure—it is a portrait of professionalism. Firmino adapted, endured, and, ultimately, excelled.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

It’s difficult not to feel a surge of admiration—and excitement—reading about Firmino’s late-season heroics. The fact he was cast aside domestically but still rose to be the star of Al Ahli’s greatest continental achievement speaks volumes about his character. He didn’t moan, didn’t demand headlines—he just got on with the job and delivered on the pitch.

Liverpool fans have always known Firmino’s worth, but this latest chapter only reinforces the idea that he’s one of the most selfless and effective modern forwards in football. To think he might be a free agent soon will surely alert several top clubs in Europe, South America, or even MLS.

There’s a poetic beauty in how he leaves Al Ahli—not in dispute, but in dignity, having handed them their most historic trophy. While Arne Slot is shaping Liverpool’s future, many Reds wouldn’t mind seeing Firmino pull on the red shirt once more, even in a cameo role.

Regardless of where he lands next, Roberto Firmino remains a class act.