Recent developments at Liverpool Football Club have sparked controversy, with star player Mohamed Salah expressing serious discontent with his current situation. Following Liverpool’s 3-3 draw against Leeds United, Salah voiced his frustrations, suggesting a significant breakdown in his relationship with the club and its new management.
Salah’s Disappointment
The Egyptian forward revealed his shock and disappointment at being benched during the match against Leeds United. “I couldn’t believe it. I’m sitting on the bench for 90 minutes. I think it’s the third time on the bench, I think it’s the first time in my career,” Salah stated. He emphasised his contributions to the club over the years, particularly during the previous season, and questioned the rationale behind his recent lack of playing time.
Feeling Undervalued
Salah’s comments indicated a feeling of being unfairly treated and unsupported by the club. He expressed that he felt like he was being “thrown under the bus,” suggesting a perception that he is being unfairly blamed for the team’s issues. “Sitting on the bench, I don’t know why, it seems the club are throwing me under the bus, that’s how it feels. It’s very clear that someone wants me to get all the blame.”
Broken Promises
Salah further claimed that promises made to him by the club during the summer transfer window have not been fulfilled. This, coupled with his reduced playing time, has led him to believe that the club is not keeping its word. “The club promised me in the summer a lot of promises and nothing so far and I’m on the bench for three games, so I can say they don’t keep their promises.”
Deteriorating Relationship with the Manager
A key aspect of Salah’s grievance is the apparent breakdown in his relationship with the new manager, Arne Slot. He noted that their once-good relationship has inexplicably deteriorated. “I said many times before I had a good relationship with the manager and all of a sudden we don’t have any relationship. I don’t know why.”
Speculation About His Future
Salah’s unhappiness has naturally led to speculation about his future at Anfield. He admitted that he doesn’t rule out a potential move in the January transfer window, indicating that he finds his current situation unacceptable. “In football you never know but I don’t accept this situation.”
Concerns About External Criticism
Salah also voiced concerns about potential criticism from pundits and the media, anticipating that he will be unfairly targeted. He referenced former Liverpool player Jamie Carragher, expecting him to be critical of his situation. “Tomorrow [Jamie] Carragher [the former Liverpool defender and Sky Sports pundit] is going to go for me again and again and that’s fine.”
Double Standards
Salah highlighted what he perceives as a double standard in how he is treated compared to other Premier League stars. He used Harry Kane as an example, noting the widespread support Kane received during a goal drought, contrasting it with the immediate calls for Salah to be benched during similar periods. “I remember a while ago, Harry Kane was not scoring for ten games, [and] everyone in the media was like, ‘Oh, Harry will score for sure.’ When it comes to Mo, everyone is like, ‘He needs to be on the bench.’”
Salah’s Achievements at Liverpool
Salah made it clear that he believes his contributions to Liverpool warrant greater respect and protection from the club. He highlighted his exceptional goal-scoring record and overall impact on the Premier League since his arrival. “I have been at this club, scoring more than anyone in this generation since I came to the Premier League, I don’t think anyone has scored more goals and made more assists than me. In the whole Premier League.”
Key grievances highlighted by Salah:
- Being benched unexpectedly.
- Feeling like he’s being unfairly blamed.
- Broken promises from the club.
- A deteriorating relationship with the manager.
- Perceived double standards in media treatment.
Salah’s Future:
- Open to a potential move in January.
- Expressing a deep love for the club despite his current issues.
- Believes he deserves more respect based on his contributions.
The situation surrounding Mohamed Salah at Liverpool remains tense. His public expression of discontent has raised questions about his future at the club and the overall management of the team. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether Salah and Liverpool can resolve their differences or if a parting of ways is inevitable. Fans will be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds and what impact it will have on Liverpool’s performance in the upcoming season.
