Roberto Firmino has been axed from Al-Ahli’s squad in the Saudi Pro League but found redemption with a Player of the Match performance as his side claimed the AFC Champions League
Roberto Firmino has turned his Saudi Arabian nightmare into a dream after winning the AFC Champions League Elite with Al-Ahli. It’s his first trophy since leaving Liverpool with the Brazilian stepping up in the final.
The 33-year-old came up with two assists and was named the player of the tournament after helping his side see off Japanese side Kawasaki Frontale, who had ousted Al-Nassr in the semi-finals en route to the final in Jeddah.
Firmino has struggled to perform since moving to the Middle East and was dropped from his team’s domestic squad this season. It meant his only opportunity to prove himself was in Asia and the Middle East’s continental competition – where he duly delivered.
The ex-Liverpool man, who was a Premier League champion and a Champions League winner whilst at Anfield, was left in tears at full-time as he maintained he was never going to give up despite his setback domestically.
He said: “There’s no words to express what I feel inside of my heart. Both of my hearts. 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 (sic) 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.”
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Firmino was embraced by the likes of Riyad Mahrez, Ivan Toney and Edouard Mendy at full-time as Al-Ahli celebrated their success. The Brazilian has spent months without game time but showed his class during the 2-0 win – where ex-AC Milan midfield Frank Kessie was among the goals.
“My thoughts come in my head. The bad moments through these times, I keep out,” said Firmino. “I stay two months without playing but you have to believe, to fight. That city, Riyadh, Riyadh will get it today. I am very grateful. All the glory be to Jesus. Thank you.”
Al-Alhi signed Galeno, who scored in Saturday’s victory, from Porto on deadline day earlier this season for £42m. The winger went straight into Jaissle’s squad, but it left Firmino as the bigger loser. Saudi Pro League clubs are only able to include a limited number of foreign players, two of whom have to be under 21.
“It was a difficult decision for the club and based on the rules,” manager Jaissle said at the time. “We appreciate him and he dealt with it professionally. He’s still one of our leaders.”
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