⁠The new Roberto Firmino is here, and he’s incredible | OneFootball

There's an exciting heir to Roberto Firmino who has finally arrived on the scene.

Roberto Firmino is arguably one of the most underappreciated club icons of the modern era. The Brazilian never seemed particularly interested in chasing the spotlight or demanding the acclaim of the Anfield crowd.

Instead, he was the perfect cog in Jurgen Klopp’s machine. Firmino kept everything ticking, doing the dirty work that allowed Sadio Mane and Mo Salah to flourish alongside him.

He was selfless, but that shouldn't disguise just how brilliant he could be. Firmino possessed incredible technique, intelligence and creativity, while his relentless work rate made him the perfect player to embody Klopp’s gegenpressing philosophy.

Without him, it is difficult to imagine Liverpool achieving everything they did during that golden era. That was Firmino’s importance: he made everyone around him better.

Why Liverpool need a new Roberto Firmino

Since Firmino left, Liverpool have never really found a direct replacement. Darwin Nunez brought plenty of energy and worked tirelessly, but he never quite possessed the Brazilian’s finesse or ability to knit everything together.

But Liverpool have moved on. The Reds have embraced a different philosophy when it comes to their No.9.

The modern Liverpool striker doesn't necessarily need to be a facilitator. Instead, the role is closer to the profiles of Sadio Mane and Mo Salah – players who naturally want to attack space, get into dangerous positions and, above all, score goals.

Alexander Isak fits that mould perfectly. He represents the future of Liverpool’s attack. The Reds signed him to put the ball in the net, and under Andoni Iraola, that is exactly what he has been doing.

Isak's role is very important, but the Reds still need a facilitator.

The new Roberto Firmino is here

Last year a Brazilian made headlines when he was being linked with a move to Liverpool. Isaque from Fluminense was believed to have attracted the interest of Liverpool scouts.

Ultimately he moved to Shakhtar Donetsk, where he has 17 goal contributions in 43 matches.

The Brazilian attacking midfielder attracted attention because of his likeness to Firmino. He very much looks like the Reds' Brazilian hero.

But he also plays like him.

This week Isaque made his Champions League debut against PSV. Not only did he register an assist but he also won the most duels (9) and the most tackles (7) in the game.

An attacking player making seven tackles in one game is pretty remarkable. It's Firmino esque, so it looks like his reincarnation is already here.

Isaque - remember the name.