Former UCL winner reveals Real Madrid tried to sign him twice – ‘There was interest’ | OneFootball

Roberto Firmino has finally lifted the lid on one of the biggest transfer rumours that followed him throughout his peak years in Europe. 

The former Liverpool striker, who won both the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League during his time at Anfield, has confirmed that he once had the chance to join Real Madrid, but chose not to make the move.

For years, Firmino was frequently linked with the Spanish giants and the Brazilian has openly admitted that those rumours were rooted in truth.

What’s the story?

Speaking to TNT Sports Brasil, Firmino revealed that the interest from Madrid was very real. Before allowing the quotes to stand on their own, he explained that discussions did take place behind the scenes. 

He said, “There was, of course, [interest from Real]. To be honest, there was interest.”

He went on to add more detail, explaining that his representatives had informed him of Madrid’s approach.

“My agency told me about it. And yes, it was recent, again, but not like before, you know, when there was that offer to go to Arabia.”

The Brazilian star then spoke about the earlier moment in his career when Madrid’s interest was most concrete.

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“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?”

So what happened?

Eventually, Firmino opted for a different path. When he received a lucrative offer from Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia, he believed it was the right decision for personal and professional reasons.

“Then the offer from Al-Ahli 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.”

Despite turning down the move, Firmino made it clear that the chance to play for Real Madrid would have been a prestigious honour. 

“Of course, Real Madrid is a massive club. It would have been a great honour and pleasure to play for Real Madrid.”

Interestingly, Firmino also revealed that Madrid revisited the idea again at the end of last season. 

The club briefly considered signing him once more, but he ultimately joined Al-Sadd in Qatar instead.