Mo Salah: What’s next for the Egyptian King?

Mohammed Salah’s quality has undeniably dropped but what is the reason for this? Starting less games, internal disputes with Slot and a dwindling contract that lingers in the air. Is it time to bid farewell to the Salah we know and love in return?

Lack of quality 

Seven goals and six assists in all competitions in mid-March is not normal for Salah and does not meet what is expected by the club for the Egyptian forward. 

It is not just about output though, the magic is missing. The same flair and creativity Salah has routinely shown in previous seasons seems to have vanished and he appears almost disillusioned. The fraught relationship with Slot may also play a role in this but it is clear to see belief in the project at Liverpool is at an all-time low, from the players to the fans. 

Title defences are meant to spur players on and motivate them to create a dynasty but having won it all already it is understandable why Salah is showcasing signs of fatigue.

Last season Salah had 56 goals against in all competitions, one of his best seasons ever as a Liverpool player as he led them to the title and is only second to his debut season in terms of output in which he had 60. 

Drop offs come with age, that is to be expected especially with wing players, but one happening so soon was definitely not on the cards for a world class performer like Salah. 

Lack of connection with the midfield 

Despite their crisis-prone defence, this season Liverpool’s midfield has improved steadily over time. Some players have shown their prowess, like Gravenberch who, when on his day, can be an anchor. He protects the back four whilst also riding tackles allowing himself to progress the ball, steamrolling through teams and threading the needle. 

His masterclass against Everton in September being a prime example. He found space in between the opposition's midfield and played a pass to Ekitike who converted from close range. The French forward slotted the ball home effortlessly and probably dreams about the assist to this day.

However, here lies the problem. Hugo Ekitike, a new summer signing has adapted to the league instantly and has produced a strong 14 goals in his debut season, so why does Salah, a veteran, only have five? 

Salah has started 26 games for Liverpool this season, so it is not a lack of minutes that is holding him back and in the Premier League, of his 21 appearances only two have been as a substitute. 

His competition in the forward position is also not as strong as past squads, previously having Firmino, Mane, Luis Diaz and Nunez to oust to remain in the squad. 

This season Slot has only ever rotated with Gakpo, Ngumoha and Frimpong. These are all talented players, with Rio being a bright young star but not quite the same level as the aforementioned. 

The reds travelled to the RAMS Park in Turkey, to play Galatasaray last week and a  cagey environment was to be expected, something typical for Galatasaray and their boisterous fan base. 

However, Salah and Liverpool had experienced this before having played there earlier this season, a game in which they lost. With Tuesday’s loss in the round of 16 of the Champions League, this makes it two losses in a row against the side. 

Salah is a leader in the squad alongside captain Virgil Van Dijk, their influence should have been more than enough to propel the squad to victory in such a high stakes game, but it was not. 

Credit: PA

Dispute with Slot and future

Last year, the conversation around Salah signing a new contract was the talk of the town, with the attacker famously stating “it’s the last six months” when asked if an agreement was made. Thankfully it was not. 

However, Salah will only have one year remaining at the end of this season and with the way his performances are now, some might suggest for him to bow out gracefully. In addition, lest we forget those comments from the 33-year-old in an explosive interview last December when he said he had been "thrown under the bus" and that the relationship with Slot had broken down. 

As a routine scorer, big moment player with multiple years of experience during the title run in and despite aforementioned issues, it would be wise to keep Salah until his contract runs out as he could help Liverpool in Europe next year, once they secure a place this season.

Verdict