Home is home, but millions are millions: Firmino ignores Fla and Flu to pursue Qatar deal

It has been two years since Roberto Firmino traded European football for the Middle East, prioritizing comfort over competition as he entered the twilight of his career. After proving his class during his years at Hoffenheim and Liverpool, the Brazilian forward is now embracing the rewards of a successful career.

Firmino, once a fan favorite at Anfield and a former Brazil international, has officially signed with Qatari powerhouse Al Sadd, marking the end of his stint with Saudi Arabian side Al-Ahli. The move, confirmed by both clubs, puts to rest weeks of speculation linking the 33-year-old with a return to his homeland, where clubs like Flamengo, Fluminense, Palmeiras, and Corinthians had expressed interest.

Despite having several suitors, Firmino opted to remain in Asia, drawn by Al Sadd's ambitious project. The Qatari club reportedly paid a transfer fee of €7 million for the striker, who is set to earn approximately $19 million annually - only slightly less than his salary in Saudi Arabia.

Firmino made a notable impact during his time at Al-Ahli, recording 21 goals and 18 assists in 65 appearances. His first season was particularly strong, though he gradually lost his starting spot in 2025.

News of his move to Qatar has been met with disappointment in Brazil, where hopes had grown for a potential homecoming. However, no Brazilian club was able to match the lucrative offers coming from the Gulf. Flamengo came closest, even exploring the possibility of signing him on a free transfer, but such a deal would have required a drastic pay cut - something Firmino was unwilling to accept. Similar financial constraints hindered negotiations with Corinthians, Fluminense, and Botafogo.

Bye-bye, Bobby

Firmino is best remembered for his time at Liverpool, where he made 362 appearances and scored 111 goals. He was a central figure in Jurgen Klopp's golden era, helping the club win the Premier League, Champions League, FIFA Club World Cup, and several domestic titles. His innovative role as a "false nine" and relentless off-the-ball movement earned widespread praise and were often considered revolutionary.

For Brazil, Firmino earned 55 caps and scored 17 goals, notably playing a key role in the Selecao's 2019 Copa America triumph. Although he wasn't part of the squad for the 2022 World Cup, his contributions to the national team remain highly regarded.