Former Liverpool star Roberto Firmino proud after more Champions League history

JEDDAH – Roberto Firmino said he was brimming with pride after making history with his Saudi club and becoming an Asian Champions League winner, six years after lifting the prestigious European equivalent with Liverpool.

The 33-year-old Brazilian forward was an important member of Jurgen Klopp’s side who won the Champions League in 2019.

Firmino was named the AFC Champions League Elite’s Most Valuable Player after inspiring Al-Ahli to beat Kawasaki Frontale 2-0 on May 3 as the Jeddah club became Asian champions for the first time.

“I’m very happy and very proud of the team. Happy to make history here and able to repay the support of the club, family and friends,” said Firmino.

“I’m very grateful and I feel privileged to be given this talent and opportunity. I always do my best to help my teammates and my team.”

Firmino scored six goals en route to the final and was pivotal again in the showpiece. The veteran laid on the pass for fellow Brazilian Galeno to curl a delicious shot into the top corner in the 35th minute before producing a pinpoint cross seven minutes later for Franck Kessie to nod home.

“This title win shows us to have a monster mentality. We always believed we could be champions and we have done it,” said Firmino.

Al-Ahli coach Matthias Jaissle praised the 58,000 home fans at Jeddah’s King Abdullah Sports City Stadium for playing their part in the win.

“I’m so proud of the players for how they were doing, how they were performing, how the journey went in this competition,” said the German coach.

“Also the fans who created an amazing atmosphere, which we never take for granted. Together, we can achieve special things and that was tonight. It’s nice to give something back to the supporters.”

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