Mohamed Salah’s glittering Liverpool career faces an uncertain future, with his current contract set to expire at the end of the season.
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Despite being in scintillating form this campaign—netting 12 goals and providing 10 assists in 19 appearances—talks of a contract extension have yet to materialize, sparking concern among fans.
Salah’s recent comments have only added fuel to the fire. After Liverpool’s thrilling 3-2 victory at Southampton, the Egyptian forward admitted:
“I haven’t received an offer to stay yet, so I am probably more out than in.”
The lack of clarity has raised speculation of a potential move to the Saudi Pro League or another top European club, especially as Salah becomes eligible to negotiate with foreign teams from January 1.
Michael Owen’s Take on the Standoff
Former Liverpool star Michael Owen, who once left the club under similar circumstances, has provided his perspective on why the negotiations might be stalling.
Speaking to Optus Sport, Owen speculated:
“My inkling, and I might be wrong, but what I hear is that Mo Salah is wanting a longer-term contract. When you’re young, you want short contracts to keep desirability. But when you’re older, you want stability and security.”
Owen believes Salah’s age—he turns 33 next summer—is a significant factor in Liverpool’s hesitation. Offering long-term deals to players in their 30s can be risky, even for someone as consistent and fit as Salah.
The Five-Year Standoff
Reports suggest Salah may be seeking a five-year contract, a term Liverpool are reluctant to agree to. Owen elaborated:
“If he’s going in asking for five years, the club might think that’s too long. Maybe they’re not even sitting down because Mo has said, ‘Well, I’m not going to talk to you unless you offer five years.’”
Fans Rally Behind Salah
Salah’s candid comments have struck a chord with Liverpool supporters, who are eager to see the club retain their talisman. Owen noted:
“The fans are going to be thinking, ‘What are you doing, Liverpool Football Club?’ Salah has played his cards cleverly with that interview.”
Parallels to Owen’s Departure
Owen’s own departure from Liverpool in 2004 to join Real Madrid offers a cautionary tale. While the allure of being a “Galactico” was too great to resist, Owen has since expressed regret over the decision.
Salah, who has been linked with Real Madrid in the past, now faces a similar predicament but is also exploring lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia.
Liverpool’s Gamble
Liverpool manager Arne Slot is enjoying a stellar season, with the team poised to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League.
However, losing Salah—one of the greatest players in the club’s history—could be a massive blow. Balancing long-term planning with immediate ambition remains a tricky challenge for the Anfield hierarchy.
What’s Next for Salah and Liverpool?
As January approaches, Liverpool must decide whether to meet Salah’s demands or risk losing him for free in the summer. For Salah, the coming months could define the next chapter of his storied career, whether that’s in Liverpool red or elsewhere.
Fans and pundits alike will watch anxiously as this high-stakes contract saga unfolds.
