Why is Roberto Firmino leaving Liverpool?
The Roberto Firmino era at Anfield came to a tearful end on Saturday as the Brazilian bade farewell to the Liverpool home faithful for the very last time.
The affectionally nicknamed "Bobby" has dazzled during his eight years on Merseyside and blossomed into an integral part of a Premier League and Champions League-winning outfit under Jurgen Klopp.
His tactical significance to the German's juggernaut has been well-documented, but his importance to Liverpudlians transcends mere false nine brilliance. His emotional connection with the fanbase manifested after he rescued a point against Aston Villa at the weekend, and many will argue that no matter who the club sign or have already signed, they may never be able to replace their bobby-dazzler.
Why is Roberto Firmino leaving Liverpool this summer?
Firmino's farewell 🫶 pic.twitter.com/KQpE9vbF7W
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) May 21, 2023
Firmino's eight-year stay at Liverpool will draw to a close following the expiration of his current contract at the end of the season.
The Brazilian has fallen down the pecking order following the arrivals of Luis Diaz, Darwin Nunez, and Cody Gakpo, with the player recently telling the Independent that now is the right time to move on: "It is time, unfortunately. The cycle here is ended and I understand it is time to go," he said.
Liverpool were reportedly willing to extend Firmino's deal, but the player is believed to be keen for a new challenge and he did not want to overstay his welcome on Merseyside, especially with the club undergoing a period of transition.
What has Jurgen Klopp said about Roberto Firmino's exit?
While Firmino arrived at the club during the latter stages of the Brendan Rodgers era, the Brazilian enjoyed all of his success at Liverpool under Jurgen Klopp, who arrived just a couple of months after the Brazilian.
The pair have won it all together, and the German admitted in March he was "surprised" by Firmino's decision to leave the club this summer.
“It could go two ways and it was one. And I respect that a lot. It’s completely normal in this kind of long relationship that we have and Bobby has with the club and with most of the players and stuff like this, and with the fans of course.
“It’s pretty special and I loved the reception he got when he came on against United. He told me and then the only other thing he said is, ‘Now I want to bring this wonderful story to a positive end.’ So, that’s it," the Liverpool boss added.
Who is going to sign Roberto Firmino?
Firmino's next destination is not yet clear, and while he's fallen down the pecking order at Liverpool, the 31-year-old is poised to have plenty of suitors this summer.
The player reportedly wants to stay in Europe and Barcelona are the current bookie's favourite for his signature. Real Madrid are also in the mix as they go in search of a Karim Benzema alternative.
Both Milan clubs are believed to boast an interest and are two sides to watch out for this summer, while Napoli may enter the fold should they lose Victor Osimhen following his majestic 2022/23 season.
Firmino has also garnered intrigue from outside of Europe with Saudi Arabian and MLS clubs at the ready. St Louis City have reportedly made a formal offer for the forward, but the player's desire to remain in Europe means they'll have to make quite the pitch to convince him to venture across the Atlantic.