Mohamed Salah has expressed feelings of betrayal by Liverpool, claiming he feels “thrown under the bus” by the club. This revelation comes in the wake of a tumultuous period regarding his relationship with head coach Arne Slot and his ongoing status as a substitute.
Salah’s Bench Role Raises Concerns
The Egypt international was an unused substitute during Liverpool’s recent 3-3 draw against Leeds United, marking his third consecutive game on the bench. With a remarkable record of 250 goals in 420 appearances for the club, Salah has faced significant changes this season.
Statements from Mohamed Salah
In a candid interview following the Leeds match, Salah voiced his frustration. He stated, “It seems like the club are throwing me under the bus – that’s how I feel.” He emphasized his longstanding support for Liverpool, expressing confusion about the sudden breakdown in his relationship with Slot.
- “I don’t think I’m the problem,” Salah remarked, highlighting his contributions to the team.
- He also pointed out his achievements, stating, “I earned my position.”
Current Performance and Future Prospects
Despite a stellar previous season, where Salah scored 29 goals to help Liverpool secure the Premier League title, his form has dipped this year. He has managed only four goals in 13 top-flight appearances since the campaign began.
Speculation about Salah’s future continues to mount, particularly with reports of interest from the Saudi Pro League. Al-Hilal, managed by Simone Inzaghi, is among the clubs looking to acquire him. Salah recently signed a two-year extension with Liverpool in April, adding another layer of complexity to his situation.
Manager’s Response
In response to Salah’s exclusion from the lineup, Slot explained his tactical decisions during the Leeds match. He stated, “It was more about controlling the game [at 3-2] and we didn’t need a goal.” Slot acknowledged the chatter surrounding Salah’s absence, noting his importance to the team.
Salah’s Legacy at Liverpool
Currently, Salah ranks third on Liverpool’s all-time scoring list, behind club legends Ian Rush and Roger Hunt. His last start occurred on November 26, 2023, during a Champions League fixture against PSV Eindhoven, which ended in a disappointing 4-1 defeat for Liverpool.
As the situation evolves, the tensions between Salah, the club, and its management will be closely monitored. His future at Liverpool hangs in the balance amidst discussions of possible transfers and ongoing performance challenges.
