Ex-Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino is having a tough time in Saudi Arabia. The Brazilian left the Reds in 2023 as a free agent after his contract ended, following an eight-year stint at Anfield.
During his time with Liverpool, Firmino netted 111 goals in 362 appearances and clinched six major trophies under Jurgen Klopp. He then moved to Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League, where he was made club captain.
After scoring nine goals in his first season, Firmino has struggled this term, managing just three goals so far. Al-Ahli are currently eighth in the league.
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On Friday, Firmino's team drew 1-1 with Al-Akhdoud, with ex-Man City star Riyad Mahrez scoring. This led to former Al-Ahli player Hussein Abdulghani suggesting that Firmino should be stripped of the captaincy.
Abdulghani suggested ex-Chelsea keeper Edouard Mendy as the next captain. Mendy had to be subbed off at half time due to a thigh injury during the draw with Al-Akhdoud.
"[Edouard] Mendy's injury is a big loss." Abdulghani told Kooora.com. "I criticized him at the beginning of his career with the team, but now I demand that he be the captain."
Firmino was also taken off in the 85th minute during Al-Ahli's recent draw. The former Liverpool star's next chance to play for his club will be against Al-Ittihad on Thursday, a team that boasts ex-Reds midfielder Fabinho in their ranks.