Author: Soorya G
Veteran Brazilian striker Roberto Firmino has started a new chapter in his soccer journey by officially joining Saudi Professional League side Al-Ahli on a lucrative three-year contract. The 31-year-old recently said goodbye after a highly successful campaign at Liverpool, where he made a lasting impact over eight years.
Having arrived at Anfield from Hoffenheim in 2015, Firmino has etched his name into Liverpool’s history, leaving an indelible mark on the club. Throughout his tenure, he demonstrated his immense ability in front of goal, scoring an impressive 111 goals in 362 appearances for the team. Firmino is now part of a stellar group of players who have moved to Saudi Arabia. In particular, Senegalese goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, who left Chelsea last week, will be his teammate.
This stream of high-profile signings reflects the ambitions of Saudi clubs to establish themselves among the global elite. Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), which recently acquired Newcastle United, has taken control of four major clubs in the country, solidifying its commitment to raising the status of the league.
Firmino’s departure from Liverpool was not alone, as several other players said goodbye to the club. Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and James Milner also left Anfield, marking the end of an era for this quartet. Firmino’s impact on Liverpool’s triumphs cannot be underestimated. Alongside players like Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, he formed a formidable attacking trio that led Liverpool’s victories. Together, they secured the coveted UEFA Champions League title in 2019, followed by the Premier League title in 2020, marking the end of a journey of almost three decades without titles for Liverpool.
In addition, Firmino played a key role in helping Liverpool win the FA Cup and League Cup in 2022. His unforgettable extra-time goal also sealed Liverpool’s first victory in the FIFA Club World Cup against Flamengo in December 2019.
Firmino announced his decision to leave the club in March and, despite offers from European teams, he opted to join Al-Ahli in what he hopes will be a fruitful tenure.