Former Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino has offered advice to the club's current striker Alexander Isak and spoken about his enduring connection to Anfield. In an interview, the 35-year-old Brazilian discussed his post-Liverpool career and his hopes for a future return.
Firmino, speaking from Qatar where he now plays for Al Sadd, reflected on his eight-year spell at Liverpool which ended in 2023. He scored 111 goals and provided 72 assists in 362 games, helping the club win the Premier League, Champions League, and multiple domestic cups. A mural near Anfield and the continued chanting of his 'Si Senor' song underscore his lasting legacy. Liverpool's current season has begun with two draws, leaving them 13th in the Premier League with two points from two games. They have scored four goals and conceded four, sitting four points behind leaders Manchester City ahead of their next match against Ipswich Town on September 4.
What did Firmino say about Alexander Isak?
Firmino addressed the form of Alexander Isak, who joined Liverpool from Newcastle United for £125 million nearly a year ago. Isak has scored four goals in 23 appearances so far. "Alex has to stay positive," Firmino said. "All strikers go through difficult periods, but he’s already proved in previous years that he’s one of the best in the Premier League." Firmino's own record as the highest-scoring Brazilian in Premier League history, with 82 goals, gives weight to his counsel. The Reds will be looking for more from their attack as they prepare for their upcoming fixtures.
How does Firmino stay connected to Liverpool?
The former false nine remains in close contact with several figures from his time at the club. He still messages former manager Jurgen Klopp on Instagram, describing him as 'the engine' and 'the heart and soul' of that Liverpool side. Klopp once claimed people would 'write books' about how Firmino interpreted his role. Firmino also regards goalkeeper Alisson Becker as 'a brother'. Alisson was linked with a move to Juventus this summer but Liverpool triggered a one-year option to keep him, with new head coach Andoni Iraola making him a vice-captain. Firmino praised Alisson as one of the world's greatest goalkeepers and a calm leader. You can view the full squad details on our squad page.
What are Firmino's current career plans?
After leaving Liverpool, Firmino spent two seasons with Al Ahli in Saudi Arabia, scoring 21 times in 62 matches and winning the Asian Champions League in 2025. He then signed a two-year deal with Al Sadd in Qatar, contributing 17 goals and eight assists in 33 games as they won the Qatar Stars League under Roberto Mancini. Mancini has since stepped down, replaced by Razvan Lucescu, and Al Sadd's title defence started with a win last weekend. Firmino, who turns 35 in October, plans to play for another four or five years, health permitting. He expressed a definitive desire to return to Anfield to play for the Liverpool Legends in a charity game.
What is Liverpool's current situation?
Liverpool's early season form shows room for improvement, with two points from their opening two league matches. Their next challenge is an away trip to face 12th-placed Ipswich Town. The team's current standings position will be a focus for Andoni Iraola as he looks to build momentum. Firmino also sent well-wishes to his old teammate Mohamed Salah, who recently joined Trabzonspor. "I wish Mo the best as he starts a new chapter in Turkey," he said. "He broke so many records at Liverpool." Firmino's own chapter at the club remains a fondly remembered part of its modern history, and his hope for an Anfield return adds a future date for fans to anticipate. The team travels to Portman Road for their next league fixture on September 4, 2026.
