"Madness" - Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp stunned by World Cup "blow" - he's not happy

Jurgen Klopp says it is "madness" that Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino has been left out of Brazil's World Cup squad.

Firmino, 31, has been a standout player for a struggling Liverpool side this season.

The 31-year-old has scored eight goals and provided four assists in 20 games in all competitions.

But despite that impressive form, he failed to make the cut for Brazil's squad for Qatar 2022.

Brazil head coach Tite has an embarrassment of riches to call upon in attack and included nine forwards in his squad; Neymar (PSG), Vinicius Jr (Real Madrid), Richarlison (Tottenham Hotspur), Gabriel Jesus (Arsenal), Antony (Manchester United), Raphinha (Barcelona), Gabriel Martinelli (Arsenal), Pedro (Flamengo) and Rodrygo (Real Madrid).

Klopp shocked by Firmino's omission

Liverpool manager Klopp reacted with disbelief to Firmino being left out of the squad.

"A blow, definitely. It was one for me, to be honest," Klopp told The Telegraph.

"It shows just how incredibly good and talented this Brazil squad is if you can leave a player like Bobby Firmino out.

"Madness. He is fine but very disappointed."

"It didn't turn out how I imagined"

Firmino, meanwhile, has issued a public statement after being left out of the squad, in which he expressed his disappointment but wished his Brazil teammates well for the tournament, which gets underway on November 20.

"Passing by to thank you for all the messages of affection. The World Cup is a dream for all players and with me it would be no different," he posted on Instagram.

Firmino has missed out on a place in Brazil's World Cup squad (Image: Alamy)

"Yesterday things didn't turn out as I imagined or dreamed for my life, but I can look back and have a heart that is grateful to God for having already allowed me to live this dream like so many others.

"You, Lord, will keep him in perfect peace whose purpose is steadfast, because he trusts in you. (Isaiah 26:3). I would like to take this opportunity to show my respect and congratulate all those called up.

"It was, is, and will always be an honour to defend my country especially with the gift that the Lord has given me. I remain here confident that God has the best for me and rooting for the hexa to come.

"For I know the plans I have for you,' says the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. (Jeremiah 29:11) #JesusYouareenough."