Lewis Steele: Salah “defying science” and shows no signs of slowing down | OneFootball

Mohamed Salah: Is He the Best Player in the World Right Now?

The discussion surrounding Mohamed Salah’s brilliance took centre stage in the latest Media Matters podcast on Anfield Index, where journalist Lewis Steele made a compelling case for Salah being the world’s best player. As Liverpool continue their imperious form this season, Salah’s remarkable contributions have reignited the debate over his standing in global football.

A Season of Record-Breaking Numbers

Salah’s statistics this season are staggering. Already, he has equalled Vinícius Júnior’s goals and assists tally from the entirety of last season—a feat Steele underscored as a measure of his dominance:

“His goals and assists have already matched Vinícius for last season, and we’re not even into the new year yet.”

With Salah in such scintillating form, Liverpool have benefited immensely. His ability to create and finish has made him indispensable in Arne Slot’s setup, and he looks poised to surpass all expectations this campaign.

The Longevity That Sets Salah Apart

Steele highlighted an often-overlooked aspect of Salah’s career—his unmatched consistency:

“He’s hit 20 goals for eight seasons in a row. If there’s any debate about Hazard or Salah, it’s ridiculous. Hazard was brilliant for two or three seasons; Salah has sustained it for years.”

This longevity, coupled with his adaptability, makes Salah a unique talent in world football. At 32, he continues to defy the usual decline associated with ageing players. As Steele put it:

“The science suggests he should be slowing down, but Salah is defying that at the moment. On this form, he could play at the top level for another five years.”

Photo: IMAGO

The Complete Forward

Salah’s brilliance isn’t confined to his goal-scoring exploits. His all-round game, from assists to defensive work rate, has been crucial for Liverpool’s success. Steele described Salah’s versatility as a hallmark of his greatness:

“His goal-scoring, his assists, his work rate off the ball—it’s just phenomenal. He’s not just a scorer; he’s a creator and a team player.”

Salah’s assist for Cody Gakpo against West Ham showcased his vision and precision. Steele acknowledged that some might see an element of luck, but ultimately, it was Salah’s intelligence and technique that created the opportunity.

Claim for Global Recognition

Salah’s extraordinary form has placed him firmly in the conversation for the 2025 Ballon d’Or. Steele argued that if Salah continues this trajectory, he could dominate the global stage:

“If Salah stays fit and on this form, he could absolutely wipe the floor with goal and assist tallies. He has to be in the conversation for the Ballon d’Or next year.”

This is high praise, particularly in an era where players like Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Erling Haaland have dominated the headlines. However, Salah’s ability to perform at the highest level consistently makes his case undeniable.

Photo: IMAGO

Joy to Watch

For Liverpool fans and neutrals alike, watching Mohamed Salah is a privilege. Steele summed up the sentiment best:

“Salah is the best player in the world on current form, and it feels like he’s getting better.”

As Liverpool aim for another historic season, Salah’s brilliance will undoubtedly be pivotal. Whether it’s his goal-scoring exploits, his creative spark, or his unrelenting work ethic, Salah continues to redefine what it means to be a world-class footballer.