The continental tournament was won by Al Ahli in a season marked by bitterness, after he was removed from the Saudi league roster, leaving him to focus exclusively on making a difference for the club in international competition.
Despite the title, the exclusion may have had an impact on Firmino's search for a new route at Al-Sadd, while still dreaming of a return to the Brazilian national team as the 2026 World Cup approaches.
In this exclusive interview with Flashscore, during a visit to Doha at the invitation of the Qatar Stars League, Firmino talks about his impressions of the country after playing in Saudi Arabia against internationally renowned players.
His successful spell at Liverpool, where he won the Champions League and Premier League, is also recalled, with the memories still vivid in the Brazilian's heart as he attempts to help Al-Sadd out of seventh place in the local league.
His last call-up to the national team was in 2022, with his strong performances in Qatar being key to his dream of wearing the national colours once again.
You played in Saudi Arabia, and now you're in Qatar. How would you compare the leagues?
"Football is a very strong sport in both countries, with fans filling the stadiums. This makes a big difference for us Brazilians; they play the role of a 12th player, always shouting and supporting.
"Every season, football in Qatar grows in terms of competitiveness, which makes me very happy. This is evident in the presence of good players who have played in Europe and are in both Qatar and Saudi Arabia. But I see that there is still room for the Qatari league to evolve to reach the same level as Europe and the Saudi league."
What made you accept the challenge of playing in Qatar, and what are your first impressions?
"I'm at a historic club, full of titles, and being here is incredible, and I'm very happy. I've been very well received, one of the best receptions I've ever had in my career. That makes me very happy."
You were very successful at Liverpool alongside Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah. How is your relationship today?
"Those were incredible years alongside them. We were part of a winning team for the eight years I was there, and we built a beautiful history. We speak from time to time. I'm very grateful to have played alongside these two stars."
What meant more to you? Winning the Champions League or the Premier League?
"The Champions League is very difficult to win, it's a tournament with extraordinary clubs, it's the pinnacle that every athlete wants to reach, alongside a World Cup. Every athlete dreams of winning the Champions League, and this is a dream I've realised. I'm very grateful for that."
Do you still follow Liverpool?
"Yes, of course. They had a good start to the season, now they've suffered a drop in performance, but I'm sure they'll soon be back with everything they've got to compete for all the trophies."
Liverpool now have two top strikers: Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike. Some even say that Ekitike is a possible successor to Firmino. What can you say about them?
"They've already proved that they're top-class players. I didn't know Ekitike before he joined Eintracht Frankfurt. He's already shown his potential with goals and performances, and seems to have a lot of desire to become a historic player for the club.
"I wish them both the best. It's only the beginning of their time at Liverpool."
What memories do you have of Jurgen Klopp? Do you think he'll ever coach a team again?
"He was the best manager I've ever had. The memories I still have are incredible. I'm grateful to have worked alongside him.
"I learnt a lot from him, and I think I was able to repay him for what he expected of me. I think he's taking a break. I think he's going to go back to coaching a club. Whether it's Liverpool, only he can say."
You last played for the Brazilian national team in 2022. Do you still want to be called up?
"I want to come back, even if I'm playing in Qatar. I'd love to wear the Selecao shirt again. I'm going for it, and I have faith that it can happen. To do that, I need to keep training and playing well, stay fit, and do my best for my club. If all that happens, I have a chance."
You have a contract with Al-Sadd until 2027, when you will be 36. Will this be the last club of your career? Do you still envisage a return to Europe or ending your career in Brazil?
"It's hard to say. I want to focus on my club and help as much as I can with goals, titles, and assists. Today I'm only thinking about here; tomorrow belongs to God."