It was dismay for Roberto Firmino on Monday as Brazil boss Tite confirmed that he had decided to call up Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli instead of the Liverpool striker – but there might be a silver lining in his harsh World Cup omission.
Brazil are favourites for many to go on and win the World Cup and Tite had some big decisions to make, particularly in attack. He has chosen to ignore the form of 31-year-old Firmino at Liverpool, to go with youth – and choose Martinelli.
The Selecao have enormous quality in the final third. The likes of Neymar, Richarlison, Gabriel Jesus, Lucas Paqueta, Antony, Raphinha and Vinicius Jr, just to name a few. They have decided to add Martinelli to the squad, over Firmino.
So, while Firmino might have been hopeful after 12 goal involvements in 19 appearances for the Reds this season, he will be watching on like the rest of us. But it does give Liverpool and Firmino some time to sort out his future.
Silver lining in Liverpool striker Firmino harsh World Cup omission
Pundits have earmarked the World Cup break as a time for clubs to get things sorted. Tottenham might want to sort out Antonio Conte’s contract. New Wolves manager Julen Lopetegui will not take over until the start of the break.
It is a time in which clubs can sort out their most-pressing affairs. For Liverpool, that could be the future of Firmino. He is out of contract at the end of the current campaign. But given his form, you would think Liverpool will tie him down.
Non-English sides will be able to pursue a pre-contract move for Firmino from January 1. That is, if he does not sign a new deal. But with Firmino now not going to Qatar, it gives Liverpool and Firmino the chance to find an agreement.
So, while Firmino will be disappointed to be left out of Brazil’s squad, it might prove to be a silver lining. He and the Reds now have the ideal time to extend his contract at Anfield – instead of having to do something quickly afterwards.
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