Firmino’s selection of Salah over Bellingham highlights not only his respect for Liverpool’s Egyptian icon but also his enduring bond with his former teammate. Salah and Firmino formed one of the most formidable attacking trios in modern football alongside Sadio Mane, powering Liverpool to Champions League and Premier League glory under Jurgen Klopp.
During his eight-year stay at Anfield, Firmino scored 111 goals in 362 matches. His connection with Salah on and off the field was central to Liverpool’s success, and his latest comments reaffirm the admiration he has for the winger’s professionalism and consistency.
While Bellingham has recently emerged as a superstar at Madrid, Salah remains Liverpool’s heartbeat. Firmino’s nod to his former teammate serves as a reminder of the Egyptian’s longevity and impact at the highest level, a player who continues to deliver even as Liverpool undergo a new era under Arne Slot.
The Brazilian, who now stars in Qatar’s top flight, continues to follow Liverpool’s fortunes closely and believes the Reds’ evolution under Slot could soon yield major results. Having seen Klopp step away in 2024, Firmino recently also hinted on the Diary of a CEO podcast that his former manager might one day return to the dugout: "I think he's taking a break, I think he's going to go back to coaching a club. Whether it's Liverpool, only he can say."