Roberto Firmino: It’s Been A Difficult Season For Me

Robert Firmino’s form has mirrored the Reds struggles this season, with the latest disappointment crashing out of the Champions League to Real Madrid at the quarterfinal stage.

The Brazilian forward was particularly wasteful in a game that was a microcosm of his campaign, spurning a number of chances he was presented in the scoreless second leg.

The no. 9 has managed six goals and seven assists across 41 appearances in all competitions this term, a disappointing return compared even to the most recent seasons.

While he was only one of those who toiled against Los Blancos, the ex-Hoffenheim man still expressed disappointment at his form:

“It’s been a difficult season for me,” he admitted to ESPN Brasil.

“We have to be sincere, there’s no lack of hope for improvement. My desire is to evolve and grow every day. There’s no lack of motivation for me.

“I charge myself a lot. I know that I’m not at my best moment compared to the last few years.

“I always want to be helping with goals and assists, but that hasn’t been happening, unfortunately.

“But I don’t give up. I’m always looking to improve to help my team to be better, together with the group. I have to evolve day after day.”

Long manager Jürgen Klopp’s key cog as the all-action false nine, Firmino’s output, not only on the scoresheet but also on the defensive of the ball, have declined in recent years and finds himself in danger of losing his starting spot permanently to the dynamic Diogo Jota.

Nevertheless, the forward believes that he still has something to give as his side look to forge ahead in their hunt back to the Champions League through a top four league finish:

“For our team as a whole, the season hasn’t been as good as last year. But we have to find a way to continue,” Firmino continued.

“Our opponents today have a different look at our team. Of course, they always respected us, but today they retreat very defensively.

“Sometimes it’s very difficult for us to get in and score goals.

“But we have to keep fighting. We have to fight for the qualification to the Champions League through the Premier League.”