On August 28, Firmino was interviewed by The Athletic via Zoom in Qatar. After the interview, he had to rush to join his Al-Sadd teammates for training.

Shortly after the interview began, the conversation quickly turned to Alexander Isak and the immense challenge he faces—how to prove he deserves the honor of being the "Premier League's record transfer signing."

Next week will mark one year since Isak's £125 million transfer to Newcastle United. However, before the first home game of the Premier League season against Nottingham Forest, the Swedish striker has been hampered by injuries and poor form, with only 4 goals in 23 appearances, a rather dismal record.

"Alex must stay positive," Firmino said. "Every striker goes through slumps, but he has already proven himself to be one of the top strikers in the Premier League. Playing for a giant like Newcastle comes with immense pressure, especially when the club pays a hefty transfer fee for you. But now he just needs to relax, and I'm sure the goals will come soon."

"You can't judge him solely on last season's performance. After all, he was plagued by injuries and missed too many games. Moreover, last season was extremely difficult for the entire team. But now everything is a new beginning, and a new coach has taken over. I believe that as he and his teammates develop better chemistry and get more opportunities, his confidence will gradually return."

"There's no better stage for a number 9 to thrive than St James' Park – scoring goals there, leading the team to victory there. St James' Park is unique, and as long as you always give your all for Newcastle, the fans will always be behind you. I believe he can do it."

In Liverpool's modern history, few players have earned such consistent respect and affection from club staff, teammates, and fans as Firmino. The Brazilian forward served the Reds for 8 years with great distinction and made a moving farewell at Anfield in May 2023.

Firmino joined Liverpool from Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga for £29 million during Brendan Rodgers' tenure. Under the careful guidance of Jürgen Klopp, he flourished—appearing in 362 games for the Reds across all competitions, scoring 111 goals and providing 72 assists.

He helped Liverpool win the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, Club World Cup, Premier League, and FA Cup. At the intersection of Anfield Road and Rockfield Road near Anfield Stadium, a giant mural honoring him remains, and Liverpool fans still often sing his dedicated anthem, "Si Señor."

Firmino still holds the record for the most Premier League goals scored by a Brazilian player (82 goals in total). He is followed by Gabriel Jesus, who played for Manchester City and now for Arsenal (79 goals), and Richarlison, who scored 71 goals for Watford, Everton, and Tottenham.

"Although I left Liverpool three years ago, I still try to watch every one of their games," he said. "This club means everything to me and my family. The people there have always given us meticulous care."

"We have so many wonderful memories: the euphoria of scoring goals, the glory of lifting trophies, the spectacular city-wide celebrations. It was a gift from God to be able to play there for so long. I am incredibly proud of what we achieved."

Firmino, along with Mane on the left and Salah on the right, formed the "Fab Three" that shook Europe and the world of football, and he was the tactical core of this attacking line. Although Mane and Salah were more prolific scorers, both publicly admitted that their breakthroughs would not have been possible without the assistance and support of their unselfish teammate in the middle.

Klopp once praised Firmino as Liverpool's "engine" and "heart and soul," even stating that people would "write books" in the future about how he perfectly embodied the false nine role with his tireless off-the-ball running.

"The reason our combination was so successful is because the characteristics of me, Mo (Salah), and Sadio (Mane) complemented each other perfectly," Firmino said. "We could both finish and create opportunities for our teammates. We had a telepathic understanding of each other's positions on the field and where the ball should be delivered. It was a great pleasure to play alongside them. Each of us gave our all and always put the team's interests first."

"I wish Mo all the best in his new chapter in Turkey. He broke countless records at Liverpool. The three of us won all the honors together and made history. We were also fortunate to have such an excellent coach."

Firmino has represented the Brazilian national team 55 times, scoring 17 goals. He maintains close contact with Klopp. Last month, Klopp became the new head coach of the German national team, and Firmino was genuinely happy about this.

"We exchange messages on social media from time to time," he added. "I am very grateful to Jürgen; he helped me tremendously in my career. I didn't have an easy time when I first joined Liverpool, but he always trusted me firmly. He told me how important I was to his team."

"It's great to see him back coaching. After so many years of intense coaching at Liverpool, he really needed a good rest. I was always confident that he would eventually return to the dugout. Coaching the German team is a fantastic opportunity for him. He is a very positive person and always brings out the best in players, helping you unleash your full potential. I believe he will be successful with the German team."

Firmino and his compatriot Alisson are still close friends; they became like brothers during their glorious years together on Merseyside. Earlier this summer, there were rumors that the Brazilian goalkeeper might transfer to Italian giants Juventus, but Liverpool firmly refused to let him go. The club had previously activated a contract extension option, keeping the meritorious goalkeeper until the end of this season.

"I think Andoni Iraola appointing Alisson as the new vice-captain is an incredibly wise decision," he said. "He has so much valuable experience to share with his teammates. He always plays a calming role in the dressing room and is an elder brother deeply admired and respected by other players. For many years, he has consistently been one of the best goalkeepers in the world, a true leader both on and off the field. Alisson is like family to me; he is a wonderful person."

After his contract with Liverpool expired in the summer of 2023, Firmino moved to Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League. In his two seasons there, he played 62 games and scored 21 goals, helping the club win its first AFC Champions League title in 2025.

Subsequently, he signed a two-year contract with Al-Sadd in the Qatar Stars League and again won the league title with the team. Under the guidance of renowned coach Roberto Mancini, who previously managed Manchester City and the Italian national team, the team successfully reached the top. Firmino was a key contributor to the team's championship, appearing in 33 games across all competitions, scoring 17 goals and providing 8 assists.

After the Italian national team missed the World Cup for the third consecutive time, Mancini agreed to return to national team coaching in June and resigned as Al-Sadd's coach. Romanian coach Răzvan Lucescu then took over the reins, and Al-Sadd began their title defense last weekend with a successful opening victory.

"I am full of anticipation for the new season," Firmino said. "Although there have been some changes at the club, our ambitions remain undiminished. My family is very happy and settled here. Although the top Qatari league only has 12 teams, unlike the leagues I've experienced before, the overall competitive level here is indeed constantly improving."

This October, Firmino will turn 35, but he has no thoughts of retirement. When talking about his love for football, his signature bright smile remains exceptionally radiant.

"I have to admit that pre-season training gets tougher each year, but every time I step onto the pitch, my love and passion haven't changed at all," he said. "I feel incredibly lucky, all glory to God. I want to play for as long as possible. As long as my body stays healthy and I can contribute at a high level, I will keep going. Why not play for another four or five years? Play until 40? It's entirely possible, it's all in God's hands."

So, is a return to Anfield possible in the future?

"One day, I will definitely go back," he added. "It's a very special place. I'm eager to go back and play in charity matches for Liverpool Legends. As long as they call me, I'll be there."

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