Roberto Firmino suffers new low as Sadio Mane struggles vindicate Liverpool decision

Jordan Henderson left Al-Ettifaq a year ago but a number of his former Liverpool team-mates still aren’t enjoying the best of times in the Saudi Pro League

The Saudi Pro League got back underway thid errk following its mid-season break and, as ever, it remains a tale of mixed fortunes for the Gulf State’s former Liverpool stars. While Jordan Henderson cut short his time in the Middle East after just half-a-season last January, Fabinho, Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Gini Wijnaldum are all still plying their trade in Saudi Arabia.

For Fabinho, it has been a memorable season so far and one the Brazilian will be desperate to replicate in 2025.

His Al-Ittihad side currently sit first in the Saudi Pro League table after 13 games played, two points clear of reigning champions Al-Hilal.

Having won 12 and lost just one of their league matches to date – which came against Al-Hilal – Al-Ittihad are also in pursuit of a possible league and cup double.

They beat Al-Hilal on penalties in the King’s Cup quarter-finals on Tuesday after a 2-2 draw, with the former Reds midfielder scoring in the shoot-out.