Home

Soccer

Despite $20 Million Saudi Deal, Roberto Firmino Wants to Return to Europe After Dismal Start For Al Ahli, Per Reports

Published 11/27/2023, 9:52 AM EST

Follow Us

Roberto Firmino now wants to pack his bags from Saudi Arabia. Following the footsteps of famous soccer stars, Firmino joined the Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli in July. When the 32-year-old received a $20 million offer from the Middle East, many believed the Saudi Arabian club aimed to acquire seasoned players instead of young blood. Nevertheless, it appears that his stint at Al-Ahli lacks promise, and he already longs to make a comeback to Europe.

Despite his age, the Brazilian’s intelligence and technical prowess made him a valuable asset in the eyes of the Saudi club. However, Firmino wants to spend the last years of his career in Europe. What changed between the two parties? Let’s find out.

Roberto Firmino wants a European return!

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

As per the reports from Dot Sport, Firmino is planning to move back to Europe by bidding farewell to Al-Ahli. The Saudi Arabian club is already aware of the intentions of the Brazilian, and they are looking for his replacement. Reports say that Al-Ahli is giving top priority to S.S. Lazio’s Ciro Immobile.

Trending

Get instantly notified of the hottest Soccer stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

Since Firmino wants to leave soon, Immobile might fly to the Middle East next summer. He has a contract with Lazio, which expires on June 30, 2026. It seems that Firmino does not want to try his luck longer in Saudi Arabia, as his goal drought has already resulted in widespread criticism from fans.

When the Brazilian star netted a hat trick on his debut, many fans believed he would flourish in the new land. Nonetheless, things took an unexpected turn, and he could not score since then. However, his coach, Matthias Jaissle, kept faith in him during the tough time and believed the soccer star would bounce back. Yet, the club is eyeing other top players.

Al-Ahli targets the Barcelona star

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

 A few weeks ago, rumors spread that Al-Ahli targeted Barcelona star Robert Lewandowski to replace the Brazilian. The Saudi Arabian club is not fully convinced that Firmino is the right choice for their number nine position. They feel Lewandowski‘s experience and goal-scoring prowess would aid the team significantly.

READ MORE: Hours After Snubbing Handshake With Xavi, Robert Lewandowski Nears Barcelona Exit as Multiple MLS Clubs Target Him as DP: Reports

However, it would be a monumental task for the club to persuade the 35-year-old, as he is fully satisfied with his current club. Moreover, he does not believe that moving to Saudi Arabia is the right thing to do at this point in his career. Barcelona also wants to retain Lewandowski for an extended period. What do you think about Barcelona’s Lewandowski replacing Roberto Firmino at Al-Ahli? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Watch this story: Soccer Stars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo Make a Huge Assist for Esports Space

 

SHARE THIS ARTICLE :

Written by:

Priyanka

1,092Articles

One take at a time

"Like many, my journey into the beautiful game began by watching the mesmerizing Lionel Messi, as his impeccable vision on the pitch and role as a playmaker, meticulously calculating the path to goal always amazed me. This fascination with the finer details of soccer strategy naturally extended to my interest in content strategy. However, my zeal for being a soccer content analyst is not only because of Messi's magic, as I am a keen follower of the Becks as well.
Show More>

Edited by:

Jacob Gijy