# Roberto Firmino: A Match Made in Heaven
Roberto Firmino is a fan favourite at Anfield, and his departure at the end of the season was an emotional goodbye for many. But it was Jurgen Klopp who truly brought out the best in the Brazilian forward, and it was clear to him from the start that Firmino had untapped potential.
## Brendan Rodgers Struggles to Tap into Potential
When Roberto Firmino first arrived at Anfield, he was under the tutelage of Brendan Rodgers. However, Rodgers struggled to tap into the Brazilian’s potential and get the best out of him.
## Klopp Sees Potential in Firmino
Jurgen Klopp had been a fan of Firmino while they were both in Germany, and when he took the helm at Anfield he was quick to recognize the potential in the forward. Ian Ayre, former Liverpool CEO, said in The Redmen TV docu-series ‘Bobby Firmino: The Best in the World’ that one of the first things Klopp said to him was “you’ve got a really great player in Firmino”.
Jordan Henderson also recalled Klopp’s words in the docu-series, saying that he remembered the manager making a big thing about Firmino and saying “people don’t realise how good he is”.
## Klopp Unleashes Firmino’s Potential
Klopp’s words had an immediate effect on Firmino, and he went on to play 355 times for Klopp – more than any other player managed by the German – scoring 111 goals and contributing 79 assists. His flair and selflessness endeared him to many, and his departure marks the end of an era at Anfield.
Jordan Henderson described Firmino as quite quiet and reserved, but always smiling and bringing good energy to the dressing room. It was clear that Klopp had found a puzzle too complex for Rodgers to solve, and it truly was a match made in heaven.
## Conclusion
Roberto Firmino’s departure from Anfield marks the end of an era full of memorable celebrations, performances and silverware. But it was Jurgen Klopp who truly brought out the best in the Brazilian forward, recognizing his potential from the start and unleashing it to its full potential. It was a match made in heaven that will be remembered for years to come.