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Liverpool legend Roberto Firmino has opened up about why he didn't make the move to Real Madrid after his departure from Anfield. The Brazilian superstar ended his illustrious eight-year stint with the Reds in 2023, leaving on a free transfer after a trophy-filled tenure on Merseyside. During his time at Liverpool , Firmino netted 111 goals and provided 72 assists in 362 appearances, playing a pivotal role in securing major titles including the Premier League and Champions League . He formed a formidable attacking trio alongside Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane. However, as he found himself slipping down the ranks in his final seasons with the club, Firmino chose to part ways after failing to reach an agreement on a new contract. The 34-year-old made a move to Saudi Arabia, signing for Al-Ahli on a free transfer, where he led the team to AFC Champions League victory last season. But after also being omitted from their Saudi Pro League squad for the second half of the campaign, Firmino was soon on the move again, signing for Qatari side Al Sadd in the summer. Firmino has now disclosed that there was interest from Spanish giants Real Madrid in both 2023 and 2025. However, he decided against joining the Bernabeu outfit on both occasions as he wasn't their top priority, reports the Liverpool Echo . "There was, of course (interest from Real Madrid)," he confessed in an interview with TNT Sports Brasil . "To be honest, there was interest. "My agency told me about it. And yes, it was recent, again, recently, but not like before, you know, when there was that offer to go to Arabia. "Back then there was real interest from Madrid. But there were a lot of factors. "I wasn't the first or even the second option, so I would have had to wait quite a bit. Not that I'm impatient, but I had to wait, you know?". "Then the offer from Al-Ahli came, and I had to pray and think if that was really the right thing. "So, that's how it happened – I went to Arabia, and I believe the purpose was fulfilled there. I think that's what was meant to happen. "Of course Real Madrid is a massive club. It would have been a great honour and pleasure to play for Real Madrid." Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
