Former Liverpool forward Roberto Fermino has disclosed why he ignored the opportunity to join Real Madrid before choosing to play for Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli. The Brazilian admitted that many factors played a role in his decision and that he did not wait long for an offer as he was not Los Blancos' first or second option.
Roberto Fermino's stats for Liverpool
Under Jurgen Klopp's coaching, Firmino cemented himself as one of the most underrated forwards in European football between 2015 and 2013. Playing mostly as a false nine, the 34-year-old amassed 111 goals and 76 assists in 362 outings across all competitions for Liverpool. He led the Reds securing seven titles, consisting of the Premier League title and UEFA Champions League.
Roberto Fermino's move to Al-Ahli
Roberto Firmino left Liverpool as a free agent after the end of the 2022-23 season. While he went on to join Al-Ahli on July 4, 2024, Firmino recently revealed that he had the opportunity to join Real Madrid before this move.
Speaking to TNT Sports Brasil, Firmino said:
“There was, of course, [interest from Real]. To be honest, there was interest. My agency told me about it. And yes, it was recent, again, but not like before, you know, when there was that offer to go to Arabia.”
He added:
"Back then, there was real interest from Madrid. But there were a lot of factors. I wasn’t the first or even the second option, so I would have had to wait quite a bit. Not that I’m impatient, but I had to wait, you know?"
"Then the offer from Al-Ahli came, and I had to pray and think if that was really the right thing. So, that’s how it happened. I went to Arabia, and I believe the purpose was fulfilled there. I think that’s what was meant to happen. Of course, Real Madrid is a massive club. It would have been a great honour and pleasure to play for Real Madrid.”
While Real Madrid reportedly wanted to sign Firmino again at the end of the last season, the former Liverpool star ultimately joined Qatar Al-Sadd over the summer on a two-year contract.
Ibrahim Konate opens up on transfer links to Real Madrid
Liverpool centre-back Ibrahim Konate has revealed that he is not aware of where the media are sourcing their reports that have sparked recent rumors of his future at Anfield. The Frenchman's contract is set to expire at the end of the season, and he has been linked with a move to Real Madrid.
Konate said:
“I've seen a lot of things in the press recently. I don't know where that's coming from. My agents are continuing discussions with Liverpool. I hope my decision will be made very soon so I can announce it”.
While Liverpool and Ibrahim Konate have been discussing new contracts for months, a breakthrough has yet to be reached because of differences over wages.
While Konate has struggled for form this season, he remains a key component of the Reds' defense along with Virgil van Dijk, having made 16 games across all competitions this season.