Roberto Firmino Takes on Fresh Challenge with Al Sadd After Al Ahli Exit

Former Liverpool Star Finds New Club as Qatari Giants Snap Up AFC Champions League Winner

For a player who has dazzled on some of the biggest stages in football—from the Premier League to the Champions League, and more recently the AFC Champions League—Roberto Firmino’s next destination has finally been confirmed. And while it may not be a return to Brazil, as many anticipated, it is certainly a move that signals a new chapter in his storied career.

According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, the 33-year-old Brazilian forward has agreed to join Qatari powerhouse Al Sadd, ending his brief but eventful stint with Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli. Firmino, a player admired as much for his charisma and work rate as for his goals, is now preparing for a fresh challenge in the Qatari Stars League.

Exit from Al Ahli: A Title and a Quiet Goodbye

Firmino’s departure from Al Ahli comes after helping the club capture the 2024 AFC Champions League title—a major milestone that added further weight to his already glittering CV. Though the club did not register him for the second half of the Saudi Pro League campaign, Firmino more than proved his worth on the continental stage.

In the Champions League, he tallied six goals and seven assists—two of those crucial assists coming in the final against Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale. It was a reminder of just how impactful the Brazilian can be when trusted in key moments. Despite his exclusion from the domestic squad list, his performances in Asia made it clear that Firmino still has plenty left to offer at the top level.

The exit had been long coming. Al Ahli president Khaled Al-Ghamdi previously told local media that there was an understanding in place between the club and Firmino—an informal agreement that would allow him to move on after completing two seasons, regardless of the contractual end date.

From Flamengo Links to Qatari Commitment

Firmino more than proved his worth on the continental stage.

In recent months, speculation had swirled around a possible return to Brazil. Flamengo, one of the biggest clubs in Firmino’s homeland, were reportedly exploring a move to bring him back to South America. Fans imagined the former Liverpool star donning the famous red and black shirt in front of the Maracanã faithful.

However, those dreams were put to rest when Firmino opted to stay in the Middle East. While a romantic return to Brazil might still be in the cards one day, his immediate focus is now firmly on Al Sadd—a club with a rich footballing pedigree and recent success both domestically and continentally.

Al Sadd, who previously boasted the talents of players like Xavi (both as a player and a coach), have consistently competed at the top of Qatari football and are regular participants in the AFC Champions League. Firmino’s arrival is not only a statement signing but also a move that signals the club’s intent to challenge for honors on multiple fronts.

A Forward Reborn in Asia

Firmino’s transition from European football to the Middle East was always going to raise eyebrows. After all, here was a player who had spent the prime of his career in one of the most physically demanding and competitive leagues in the world, playing a pivotal role in Liverpool’s golden era under Jürgen Klopp.

From 2015 to 2023, Firmino scored 111 goals for the Reds and was a central figure in their Champions League and Premier League triumphs. But as Liverpool reshaped their attacking line with younger options, Firmino chose a new path—one that led him first to Saudi Arabia and now to Qatar.

His time at Al Ahli was a mixed bag. While injuries and tactical decisions saw him fall out of favor domestically, his class was undeniable in continental competition. His creativity, off-the-ball movement, and eye for a pass reminded everyone of the qualities that made him a fan favorite at Anfield.

What Next for Al Ahli and Firmino?

With Firmino’s departure now all but confirmed, Al Ahli are left searching for a replacement. The Saudi club has not been shy about its ambitions, and reports earlier in the summer linked them with outrageous moves for Lionel Messi and Mason Greenwood. However, neither of those pursuits have advanced to formal offers.

It’s clear, though, that Al Ahli want a marquee attacker to fill the void left by Firmino. Whether they opt for a seasoned European name or a rising talent remains to be seen, but the pressure is certainly on to deliver a player capable of matching the Brazilian’s output and charisma.

For Firmino, the move to Al Sadd represents a new adventure, perhaps one of the final chapters of his playing career. Yet, knowing his personality and passion, don’t expect him to simply wind down in Qatar. If anything, he’ll view this as another stage to entertain, inspire, and—most importantly—win.

Firmino’s Legacy Continues to Evolve

While the glitz of the Premier League and Champions League may be behind him, Roberto Firmino’s journey is far from over. From Maceió to Merseyside, from Riyadh to Doha, his path has been as unexpected as it has been memorable. Wherever he plays, the Brazilian carries with him a unique blend of samba flair, humility, and work ethic.

Al Sadd will be hoping that Firmino’s magic touch can push them to silverware this season. And for Firmino, it’s another opportunity to leave his mark—this time, in a league that’s growing in both reputation and quality.

The shirts may change, the stadiums may look different, but Bobby’s smile, work rate, and unselfish genius remain the same.