10 fun facts about Roberto Firmino

Roberto Firmino Barbosa de Oliveira is a Brazilian professional footballer who plays as a forward or attacking midfielder for Al-Ahli, a prominent team in the Saudi Pro League. Notably, Firmino serves as the captain for Al-Ahli and also represents the Brazil national team.

Initially, he commenced his career with Figueirense in 2009 before embarking on a successful four-and-a-half-year stint with TSG Hoffenheim. During the 2013-14 Bundesliga season, Firmino’s exceptional performance of scoring 16 goals in 33 games earned him the prestigious Breakthrough Player award.

In July 2015, Liverpool secured his services, where he garnered praise for his creativity, goal-scoring prowess, and relentless work ethic. Manager Jürgen Klopp often referred to Firmino as the driving force behind the club’s counter-pressing system, labeling him the “engine” of the team. Following Philippe Coutinho’s departure, Firmino formed a formidable attacking trio alongside Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mané.

In the 2018-19 season, Firmino played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s triumph in the UEFA Champions League. Subsequently, he continued his success by claiming the UEFA Super Cup, FIFA Club World Cup (with a winning goal in the final), and the 2019-20 Premier League title in the following campaign. Additionally, Firmino secured victories in the FA Cup and EFL Cup with Liverpool during the 2021-22 season.

His contributions have solidified his status as a revered figure among Liverpool fans. In 2023, after eight years with Liverpool, Firmino decided not to extend his contract and subsequently joined Saudi club Al-Ahli on a free transfer.

Firmino made his international debut for Brazil in November 2014 and has represented his nation in various prestigious tournaments, including the Copa América in 2015, 2019, and 2021, as well as the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Here are 10 fun facts about him.

1. Protective parents

Firmino hails from Maceio, Alagoas in Brazil. Growing up in an area plagued by crime and facing challenging economic conditions, he and his family had to struggle to make ends meet.

Due to the circumstances, his parents were very protective of him, limiting his independence. However, football provided Firmino with a way to break free from the constraints of crime and his parents’ restrictions.

2. Discovered by a dentist

Marcellus Portella, a dentist, recognized the potential in Firmino. In addition to his dental profession, Portella served as a surgeon for the local Brazilian team Clube de Regatas Brasil.

It was during this time that he discovered Firmino, a player who had been overlooked by others. Recognizing the exceptional talent possessed by the young forward, Portella made the decision to become his representative.

With his guidance, Firmino was able to secure a place in his first academy team at ­Figueirense, ensuring that his remarkable abilities would no longer remain hidden.

3. Versatile on the field

Firmino is a versatile footballer and has performed well in the positions of attacking midfielder and second striker. He also showcases his skills as a forward, winger, or central midfielder, utilizing his speed, close control, and exceptional vision in any role he is assigned.

His professional attitude, intelligent positioning, agility, and knack for making incisive runs without the ball have earned him admiration from his teammates, managers, and pundits. Moreover, his ability to draw opposing players away and create opportunities for his teammates is highly commendable .

4. He’s naturally shy

As he advanced in his career, Firmino grew more self-assured, but this wasn’t always the case. Initially, Firmino lacked confidence in himself, which hindered his chances despite his undeniable talent. Surprisingly, he allowed the Figueirense coach to mistakenly refer to him as Albert for two weeks due to his shyness.

5. Loves tattoos

Tattoos are a defining feature of Firmino’s identity. His body is a canvas that showcases his values and beliefs, with his family and faith being central themes. His parents are honored on his right arm, while his devotion to God is evident through the tattoos on his chest and neck.

6. Adidas ambassador

Firmino has an endorsement deal with Adidas, wearing their boots and using their accessories during matches. He has actively participated in numerous Adidas campaigns and has appeared in various advertisements alongside football stars like Messi, Pogba, and Zidane.

7. He’s multilingual

Firmino possesses fluency in three languages and effortlessly communicates in them. These languages encompass his native Portuguese, as well as German and English.

His proficiency in German played a pivotal role in establishing a strong bond with his teammate Takumi Minamino. Similar to Firmino, the Japanese forward is also fluent in German, which facilitated an instant connection between them and aided Firmino in adapting to his unfamiliar environment.

8. Loves cars

Firmino has a deep passion for cars. Collecting some of the most extravagant automobiles in the world is one of his cherished pastimes, funded by his earnings from his football career. Among his remarkable assortment are renowned vehicles like the Porsche Panamera, Lamborghini Urus, Rolls Royce Phantom, Ferrari 458 Italia, Range Rover, and Porsche Cayenne.

9. Scored Liverpool’s 1000th goal

On 19th January 2019, Firmino secured his place in Liverpool’s historical records by scoring their 1000th goal at Anfield during a match against Crystal Palace. This significant goal marked Liverpool’s second in a thrilling seven-goal encounter, where the Reds narrowly emerged victorious over Crystal Palace.

Although the ultimate outcome of the season did not favor Liverpool, as they missed out on the title to Manchester City, supporters will always remember Firmino’s contribution as a momentous occasion in the club’s history.

10. Pals with Coutinho

Firmino tied the knot with Larissa Pereira in 2017 in Maceio, his hometown. For his special day, the Brazilian striker selected his attacking partner, compatriot, and former Liverpool forward Phillipe Coutinho as his best man.