31-year-old Liverpool set to leave for free this summer

Roberto Firmino set to leave Liverpool for free at the end of the season

According to The Athletic (subscription required), Roberto Firmino is set to leave Liverpool on a free transfer at the end of this season.

Liverpool signed the Brazil international for £29m from German side Hoffenheim back in the summer of 2015 when Brendan Rodgers was in charge.

But, it was under Jurgen Klopp that we saw the best of Firmino as a false nine. His partnership with Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah was the best in Europe for the span of four years between 2017 and 2021. Now, we will see only one of them (Salah) playing for us from next season onward. End of an era for sure!

Firmino scored 107 goals and assisted 78 in 353 appearances in all competitions and won every trophy that is to win in club football at Anfield. Most importantly, he was a key part of the setup that brought the league title back to Liverpool after 30 years in 2020.

While it will be sad to see the end of the 31-year-old’s time with Liverpool, it is a sensible decision from all parties involved.

It is clear that Klopp is looking to reshuffle things in the summer. Part of the reshuffle is to say goodbye to the players who have been exceptional servants of the club for the past few years. Firmino was one such servant.

We signed Cody Gakpo (24) in the January window and have played him in that false nine position in the last few weeks. It seems as if the Dutchman is the long-term replacement for Firmino. If that is the case, it is swift transition work for everyone involved at the club.

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For Firmino, he is sure to have a deservingly joyful farewell in May. There will be tears but of happiness and sadness combined. Memories made will always be there to cherish.