Roberto Firmino reminded football fans why he’s still a special player.

The former Liverpool forward starred in the AFC Champions League final as Al Ahli secured a historic win.

But what caught the attention of many fans back in England wasn’t just his performance on the pitch.

Firmino has always been a fan favourite at Liverpool, but one thing stood out during his time at Anfield—he hardly ever gave interviews in English.

What Roberto Firmino said about Mohamed Salah after Al Ahli triumph	Firmino captains Al Ahli to 1st Asian CL title	Toney and Firmino help Al-Ahli to first Asian Champions League title

Most fans assumed he wasn’t comfortable speaking the language publicly.

So when the Brazilian gave a post-match interview in fluent English, it sparked surprise and excitement across social media.

Liverpool fans were proud, emotional, and even a bit amused.

The same player who had been quiet in interviews for years suddenly opened up confidently.

But this moment meant more than just language skills.

It showed growth, resilience, and a familiar passion that Reds supporters still connect with.

The AFC Champions League is Asia’s top club competition, much like Europe’s UEFA Champions League.

Al Ahli, one of Saudi Arabia’s biggest teams, faced Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale in the final.

Firmino wore the captain’s armband and provided two assists in a 2-0 win, helping his team lift their first major trophy since his arrival in 2023.

After the match, Firmino spoke to CBS Sports.

He was emotional and gave all credit to his faith and hard work.

He said, “There are no words to express what I feel inside, in my heart.

They took me out of the league and left me in the Champions League, and I don’t give up, I never give up.”

He continued by saying, “I know who brought me here, and I want to give back all the glory to God.”

“He knows what plans he had for us.

It’s a pleasure to be part of this club.”

On the challenges he faced, he added, “I was out for months without playing.”

“It’s very difficult, but you have to believe, to fight.”

Firmino finished the tournament with 13 goal contributions in 10 matches and was named Player of the Tournament.

It was a special night for Firmino.

And Liverpool fans were once again reminded why he remains one of the most loved players to wear the red shirt.

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@cbssportsgolazo What it means for Roberto Firmino after winning the AFC Champions League with Al-Ahli ? #afcchampionsleague #robertofirmino #alahli #soccer #football ? original sound – CBS Sports Golazo

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