Liverpool legend ready to leave Saudi Pro League in January
Liverpool legend Roberto Firmino is ready to leave the Saudi Pro League just half a season after his arrival, according to a report.
The 32-year-old was one of a number high-profile arrivals in the newly monied Saudi top flight this summer, joining Al-Ahli upon expiry of his Liverpool contract.
The Brazilian was made captain of his new side that also features former Premier League stars Riyad Mahrez, Edouard Mendy and Allan Saint-Maximin, as well as Gabri Veiga and Franck Kessie.
However, according to Football365, Firmino is 'preparing to leave' after just six months in Jeddah.
The former Liverpool number nine has endured a tough time of late, having tragically lost his father following a heart attack in November.
The report claims that Firmino has 'lost patience' after losing his place in the team.
Firmino scored a hat-trick on his debut for Al-Ahli back in August but has failed to find the net since and has been consigned to a bit-part role since November – last starting a game on 27 October.
Instead, 23-year-old Saudi striker Firas Al-Buraikan has been manager Matthias Jaissle's preferred option to lead the line in recent showings, with the homegrown forward netting 11 times this season.
Football365's report claims that despite interest from other Saudi sides, Firmino would prefer to return to Europe or his homeland of Brazil.
Prior to his move to Al-Ahli during the summer, he was linked with the likes of Barcelona and Juventus.
Firmino – who scored 111 goals in 362 appearances for Liverpool – made an emotional exit from Anfield at the end of the 2022/23 seasons, after eight years.