Roberto Firmino has commented on a potential move to Liverpool’s recent Champions League opponents Real Madrid.
The Spanish press praised Arne Slot’s side on the back of their victory over Los Blancos on November 1.
Alexis Mac Allister scored the only goal of the game to hand the Reds three points at Anfield.
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Hugo Ekitkie impressed in the win, while former Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino has been speaking about both teams this week.
Roberto Firmino during Al Sadd SC v Al Rayyan SC - Doha Bank Stars League Qatar
Photo by Noushad Thekkayil/NurPhoto via Getty Images
How close Roberto Firmino came to signing for Real Madrid
Speaking to TNT Sport Brasil before Tuesday’s fixture, the Brazilian was asked: “Real Madrid – I also read some news before coming here that there was interest, reports in the media, even some recent talk about Real Madrid being interested in you. How did you find out about that? What’s the story there? Or was it more just media talk?”
Firmino responded: “There was, of course. To be honest, there was interest. My agency told me about it. And yes, it was recent, again, recently, but not like before, you know, when there was that offer to go to Arabia. 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-Sadd 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.”
The interviewer continued: “Did you have that feeling of wanting to play for Real Madrid someday?”
The former Liverpool striker replied: “Of course – Real Madrid is a massive club. Like I said before, it would have been a great honour and pleasure to play for Real Madrid.”
How Roberto Firmino is faring at Al Sadd
Instead of moving to Spain, Firmino secured a transfer to Al-Ahli following his Liverpool exit.
He scored 21 goals and assisted 17 in 65 matches before leaving to join Al Sadd in July 2025.
So far this season, the 34-year-old has scored four goals and provided one assist in 10 appearances across all competitions.