Roberto Firmino left in tears as Anfield pays tribute to four departing Liverpool stars
Roberto Firmino bid an emotional farewell to Anfield as he scored a late equalizer in Liverpool's draw against Aston Villa, on a day when the club paid tribute to four departing players. Liverpool honored two of their long-serving stars, James Milner and Firmino, during their final home match of the season. Banners were raised on the Kop and both players received enthusiastic receptions when their names were announced, despite starting on the substitutes' bench.
In the closing stages of the game, both Milner and Firmino were brought on to thunderous cheers, providing a lift to the team. It was Firmino who made the most significant impact, scoring in the 89th minute from a cross by Mohamed Salah. The Brazilian forward had the opportunity to celebrate his goal in front of the jubilant Kop, and after the match, he was embraced by his compatriot Alisson, with the two sharing a touching moment.
Following the game, the departing players, including Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Naby Keita, embarked on a lap of the pitch accompanied by their families, as a gesture of appreciation to the Anfield faithful. The Kop sang a special song dedicated to Firmino, expressing their affection for the player who has called Liverpool home for the past eight years.
Firmino and Milner arrived at Liverpool before Jurgen Klopp took charge, becoming integral parts of the team during a period of remarkable success. The club won the Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League title in 2020. Firmino, in particular, received praise for his role in the formidable attacking trio alongside Salah and Sadio Mane. With Mane's departure last year, Salah remains the sole member of that iconic front three who will remain at the club next season.
The future destination of Firmino is yet to be determined, but given his contributions to one of Europe's top sides in recent years, he is expected to attract significant interest. Milner, on the other hand, received a fond farewell in his final Anfield appearance, as the 37-year-old midfielder is set to join Brighton next season. Milner's eight-year tenure at Liverpool saw him make 330 appearances and win several major honors, becoming a beloved figure among the fans.
After the match, all four departing players were given a guard of honor by their teammates and club staff, and each received a parting gift. In March, when Firmino's departure was announced, Klopp expressed his admiration for the Brazilian and emphasized that his impact and the memories he created at Anfield would endure for a long time.
As the curtains close on their Liverpool careers, the departing quartet leaves behind a legacy of success and cherished memories, while the club and fans prepare to welcome new faces and embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
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