In the summer of 2023, Fabinho, one of Liverpool FC’s most reliable midfielders, made headlines when he left the club to join Al-Ittihad in the Saudi Pro League. The transfer came as a surprise to many fans, given his pivotal role in the team’s success during his five-year tenure at Anfield. Recently, Fabinho opened up about his departure, revealing that leaving Liverpool was not his initial desire and shedding light on the pivotal conversation with manager Jurgen Klopp that ultimately influenced his decision.

Fabinho’s journey with Liverpool began in 2018 when he joined from AS Monaco for £43.7 million. The Brazilian quickly established himself as a cornerstone of Klopp’s midfield, known for his composure, tactical intelligence, and ability to break up opposition play. Over the years, he contributed to Liverpool’s triumphs in the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, and other major competitions. His versatility and consistency made him a fan favorite, and his departure left many wondering what prompted such a significant move.

Reflecting on his final season at Liverpool, Fabinho admitted that it was a challenging period for both him and the team. “The last season was tiring, exhausting,” he said. “We didn’t perform well and couldn’t qualify for the Champions League. I lost my place in a few games, but that happens.” Despite the setbacks, Fabinho returned for the 2023-24 season with renewed determination, eager to fight for the Premier League title once again. However, an unexpected offer from Al-Ittihad changed the course of his career.

The Saudi club’s proposal was substantial, and Liverpool’s directors informed Fabinho that it was a deal beneficial for both the club and the player. Initially, Fabinho was hesitant. “I was scared and decided to wait to see what [the coaching staff] would say,” he recalled. “I thought I was an important player, and they would reject any offer.” To his surprise, he sensed that Liverpool was open to letting him go, a realization that shook his confidence in his future at the club.

The turning point came during a conversation with Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool’s charismatic manager. Fabinho shared that he sought Klopp’s perspective, hoping for reassurance about his role at the club. “He called me and asked what I wanted,” Fabinho explained. “I said I’d heard the offer and liked it, but I wanted to hear what he thought.” Klopp’s response was candid: he told Fabinho that he would not stand in the way of any player who wanted to leave. This conversation, though honest, left Fabinho conflicted. “That speech opened the door for me to leave,” he said. “It could’ve made me stay, but he left it open, and I didn’t like that too much.”

Klopp’s approach, while pragmatic, underscored the reality of modern football, where even loyal players can find themselves at a crossroads. For Fabinho, the decision to leave was not taken lightly. “I always like to pray before making decisions,” he said. “Liverpool is a club I love, but what happened at that time took my life to Arabia. I left in peace and happy with my decision.”

Fabinho’s departure was not just a professional transition but an emotional one. He spoke fondly of Liverpool, describing it as a club that transcends football. “Liverpool is an emotional club that helps us all,” he said. “Not just on the pitch but in your life too. Everything they did for me and my family was spectacular; I’ve never seen anything like it.” He highlighted the global support for the club, noting that Liverpool fans, whether in England or beyond, shower the players with love and admiration. This connection with the supporters made leaving Anfield all the more difficult.

Fabinho’s move to Al-Ittihad marked a new chapter in his career, one that brought financial rewards and a fresh challenge in a growing football league. However, his reflections reveal a deep attachment to Liverpool, a club that shaped him both as a player and as a person. His legacy at Anfield remains intact, with memories of crucial tackles, match-winning performances, and the unbreakable bond with the fans.

As Fabinho settles into life in Saudi Arabia, his story serves as a reminder of the complexities of football transfers. Players often face decisions that balance personal ambition, loyalty, and the realities of the sport’s business side. For Fabinho, the conversation with Klopp was a defining moment, one that opened the door to a new journey while leaving behind a cherished chapter at Liverpool. His gratitude for the club and its supporters is evident, and his words resonate with fans who continue to hold him in high regard.

In the end, Fabinho’s departure was not just about leaving a club—it was about carrying forward the lessons and love from Liverpool into the next phase of his career. As he put it, “I left in peace and happy,” a sentiment that reflects both closure and hope for what lies ahead.