Qatar Stars League Champions Al Sadd yesterday officially announced the signing of Brazilian striker Roberto Firmino from Saudi club Al Ahli Jeddah on a two-year deal, running until 2027.Firmino joined Al Ahli in the summer of 2023, arriving from English side Liverpool. During his time with Al Ahli, the Brazilian forward played 65 matches across all competitions, scoring 21 goals and providing 17 assists. He also lifted the AFC Champions League Elite title with Al Ahli, in which he tallied six goals and seven assists in the club’s triumphant continental campaign — two of those assists coming in the final against Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale.Although he had a year remaining on his contract, Firmino's departure had long been anticipated. Earlier this year, Al Ahli president Khaled al-Ghamdi revealed that there was a mutual agreement in place allowing the 33-year-old to leave after two seasons. Uncertainty around his future grew when Al Ahli opted not to register him for the second half of the Saudi Pro League season.Despite being linked with a return to top Brazil club side Flamengo and even a potential move to Turkish side Fenerbahce, Firmino has opted to stay in the Middle East. His arrival is a major boost for Al Sadd, who continue to build a formidable squad in their pursuit of domestic and continental success.Firmino remains a beloved figure at Liverpool, where he won the Premier League and Champions League under Jurgen Klopp before moving to Saudi in 2023.
July 23, 2025 | 10:44 PM