Brendan Rodgers and the transfer committee signed Roberto Firmino for £29m in the summer, but the Brazilian, set to start today against Manchester City, recognises his former manager’s departure was inevitable.
The ex-Hoffenheim attacker cost Liverpool serious money, but Rodgers failed to get him, and the rest of his attacking talents, performing early on this term – racking up a series of uninspiring results before his sacking.
Firmino, rather bluntly, says that when managers lose football matches, only one thing happens, reports the Express.
“It was a short period [under Rodgers] but I considered him a great manager but I didn’t get much playing time under him,” Firmino began.
“When results don’t come along, it is a must to switch managers.”
Under Rodgers, Firmino didn’t show anywhere near his best level, but has started to give supporters a glimpse of what he’s capable of now that Jurgen Klopp has taken charge.
“I think Klopp has the typical Germany mentality, which I am used to as I played for four years in Germany,” he continued.
“I do like his German methods, he concentrates and focuses on what he wants. I think he will help us. We are already getting what he wants from us.
“He brings good vibes, we are on a positive path and we are always aiming high.”
Klopp’s so far used Firmino more sensibly. He’s either given him the pivotal no.10 creative spot, or played him as a false 9 – whereas Rodgers kept using him on the wing.
It’s from a central position that he’ll thrive though, and hopefully the talented South American can start fulfilling his potential in the run up to Christmas.