Roberto Firmino was so determined to play in his Anfield farewell that he joked he would have knocked on Jurgen Klopp’s door if he was not included in the squad. The Brazil international will leave the club this summer after eight years, during which time he formed part of arguably the best forward line in the world alongside Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane. During this period, Firmino won the Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup and Club World Cup. His last home appearance was put in jeopardy by an injury, but he did everything to get himself back into contention to face Aston Villa and even admitted he would have made himself available even if he was not fit. He is not the only one saying his goodbyes, as midfielders James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Naby Keita have also come to the end of their contracts, but his absence will be most keenly felt. Firmino has made more appearances under Klopp than any other player, having arrived a few months earlier than the German in the summer of 2015 as one of Brendan Rodgers’ last signings. He was always selected for the big occasions and nearly always delivered, although his tally of 109 goals in 360 matches far from tells the story of his contribution to the side. He was the perfect foil for Salah and Mane, who shouldered the greater goalscoring burden but were indebted to the space created and passes made by their team-mate. The false-nine role was introduced by Firmino and Klopp, and it has been a great success. In Monday’s victory at Leicester, the travelling support serenaded Firmino with his ‘Si Senor’ song for a full 15 minutes even though he was not even in the squad and sat in the stands. He symbolises everything about the Klopp era: hard-working, talented and humble. When asked how he felt about being considered a ‘legend’ by fans, he said it was an honour and a privilege. He knows there will be plenty of renditions of his song on Saturday and beyond as it is something he even sings himself. It is clear that it is the right time for him to go, with the forward line undergoing a rejuvenation. He said he is very proud of the beautiful history they made together and that it is a result of his hard work every day.
