Ex-Liverpool star Roberto Firmino couldn’t help but shed tears of joy on clinching his first piece of silverware since his Anfield departure in 2023.
At the age of 33, he played a pivotal role in Al-Ahli’s AFC Champions League Elite triumph, notching up two assists and clinching the player of the tournament honours along the way.
Al-Ahli faced off against Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale in the grand final held in Jeddah, which presented a significant moment for the team’s skipper, Firmino. Just two years after not being offered a new Liverpool deal, he watched from a distance as many of his old mates celebrated their second Premier League crown just last weekend.
Life in Saudi Arabia has proved challenging for the Brazilian, finding himself sidelined from his team’s domestic league action this season and caught amidst swirling transfer speculation.
However, Firmino’s determination shone through in the continental contests, where he’s been keen to make a powerful impact.
The assists he contributed to compatriot Galeno and ex-AC Milan playmaker Franck Kessie marked his substantial influence in this season’s competition, steering his side towards an unprecedented trophy win in their 88-year history.
“There’s no words to express what I feel inside of my heart. Both of my hearts,” he expressed with his signature wide smile right after the match ended.
“They take me out of the league [squad] and of course leave me in the Champions League [squad]. I don’t give up. I never give up.
“I know who bring me here and I want to give back all the glory to God. He knows what plans are ahead for us. The great team, it is a pleasure to be a part of this big club.”
When the final whistle sounded, Firmino celebrated with his teammates, including ex-Premier League stars like Riyad Mahrez, Ivan Toney, and Edouard Mendy.
At 33, Firmino was spotted by cameras, eyes twinkling with joyful tears reflecting on adding another trophy to the six he’s claimed over his eight years in Liverpool colours.
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“My thoughts come in my head. The bad moments through these times, I keep out. I stay two months without playing but you have to believe, to fight,” he shared, shedding light on why emotions poured out post-match.
“That city, Riyadh, Riyadh will get it today. I am very grateful. All the glory be to Jesus. Thank you.”
In 362 appearances for Liverpool, Firmino netted 111 goals and provided 76 assists. As an integral part of a lethal attacking trio alongside Mane and Salah, complete with a mural on Anfield Road, he continues to be cherished by Liverpool fans around the world.
