Saudi Pro League boss calls on Roberto Firmino as nightmare continues for ex-Liverpool star

Roberto Firmino could join Jordan Henderson as the former Liverpool star to seal a quick exit from Saudi Arabia.

The Brazil international ended his eight-year spell on Merseyside last summer when he signed for Al-Ahli at the end of his Liverpool contract. Although the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, N’Golo Kante and Riyad Mahrez have thrived in the Middle East, Firmino has struggled significantly.

In 34 appearances for his side, Firmino has managed nine goals and seven assists, although the plan remains to leave. “Al Ahli, no change in Matthias Jaissle’s position – confirmed for next season as head coach – over Roberto Firmino,” said the Brazilian journalist Rudy Galetti claimed on X (formerly Twitter).

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“German manager asked to part ways with Brazilian and look for new ST: Saudi club working in that direction.” In the January transfer window, Firmino was linked with a move to Chelsea following their struggles in attack and although a move never materialised, an imminent exit is expected.

A disastrous spell in the Saudi Pro League for Firmino could come to a premature end just six months into this summer, and it comes just months after Jordan Henderson swapped Al-Ettifaq for Ajax. The 32-year-old had a couple of offers from Europe last summer but opted for a move to Saudi Arabia and in hindsight it appears to have been the wrong decision.

However, as Henderson demonstrated, there can be a clear path out and back to a top European team, with Firmino still having plenty of his career left to shine.