Roberto Firmino explains why he is leaving Liverpool
By Sean Walsh
Roberto Firmino has revealed why he has decided not to renew his contract at Liverpool.
The Brazilian forward will leave the club when his deal expires this summer, bringing an end to a memorable eight-year stay on Merseyside.
During his time with the Reds, Firmino has won seven trophies and was generally known as the selfless third attacker in Liverpool's frontline, providing the perfect compliment to the clinical Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane.
But ahead of his final game at Anfield this weekend against Aston Villa, Firmino explained why now is the right time for him to move on.
"It is time, unfortunately," he said to the Independent. "The cycle here is ended and I understand it is time to go.
"I am very proud for everything that I have done here with the team, what we achieved together and the beautiful history we made together. It was absolutely incredible. We are leaving a great legacy.
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"It is a privilege. That makes me happy, I'm OK with that," he added when it was put to him he symbolised what Jurgen Klopp's side stood for.
"Sometimes I enjoy more the assists than actually scoring a goal myself. To play alongside these two guys [Salah and Mane], top players, it was an honour and a pleasure for me."
Liverpool are hopeful that Firmino will overcome a minor injury in time to take to the pitch one last time at Anfield on Saturday.
Though his game time has been reduced in recent seasons, Firmino has put up respectable numbers this time, scoring 11 goals and adding five assists in 33 games for the Reds in all competitions this term.
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