Firmino excluded from Saudi Pro League squad for second half of season
Liverpool icon Roberto Firmino has been dealt a blow at Al-Ahli, being excluded from the Saudi Pro League squad for the second half of the season.
The decision comes as a result of registration rules, which limit clubs to 10 foreign players for their domestic campaign. Firmino's exclusion was forced by the recent signing of Wenderson Galeno from Porto, which took Al-Ahli's foreign player count to 11.
Despite captaining the team for most of the season and scoring nine goals in 25 appearances, Firmino was the player to make way. He will now only be eligible to play in the AFC Champions League.
Al-Ahli head coach Matthias Jaissle praised Firmino's professionalism in dealing with the decision, saying: "It was a difficult decision for the club and based on the rules.
"We appreciate him and he dealt with it professionally. He's still one of our leaders."
The news comes on the back of Firmino's stunning bicycle kick goal in the AFC Champions League, which showcased his enduring quality and skill.
