Report: Can Liverpool Keep Their Star Man and Balance the Books? | OneFootball

Mo Salah: Can Liverpool Keep Him While Making the Numbers Work?

Mohamed Salah continues to prove his worth as one of Liverpool’s most influential players, amassing impressive statistics this season. However, with his contract set to expire next summer, the club faces a monumental decision: how to keep their talisman while balancing the books.

Salah’s Relentless Numbers Speak Volumes

At 32, Salah is showing no signs of slowing down. With 10 goals and 10 assists already this season, he became the first player in Europe’s top five leagues to achieve this milestone. His contributions in the recent 2-0 victory over Aston Villa underline his value, as he averages a goal or assist every 67.5 minutes this season—outperforming even his iconic 2017-18 campaign.

Photo: IMAGO

His productivity isn’t merely down to form but a testament to his mindset. When Johnny Heitinga, now part of Arne Slot’s coaching team, questioned his performance earlier this season, Salah responded with an anecdote that defines his philosophy. Recalling advice from Arsène Wenger, he said: “The best are always in the game regardless of whether the momentum is with them. I always try to find a way to change a game. That’s the most important thing.”

These “moments” have been a hallmark of Salah’s career at Liverpool, and he continues to adapt his game. Even as age takes its toll on physical attributes like pace, he has compensated with creativity and an ability to stay ahead tactically.

Can Liverpool Afford to Keep Salah?

Liverpool’s desire to retain Salah is clear. His family is settled in the North West, he has a strong relationship with the fans, and he has described Slot as “very straight” in their dealings. Yet, negotiations have yet to yield a breakthrough.

The crux of the issue isn’t merely about meeting Salah’s demands. While estimates suggest his current deal, signed in July 2022, brings him between £350,000 and £400,000 per week, these figures could be conservative. Including image rights and endorsements, his agent, Ramy Abbas, revealed in a Harvard Business School study that Salah earns over £1 million weekly in total income.

Liverpool must weigh this significant financial commitment against their long-term strategy. As a club with a reputation for smart resource allocation, they aim to maintain short-term success while preparing for the future. Balancing these priorities means Salah’s potential new deal isn’t just a question of money—it’s a matter of timing and planning.

Photo: IMAGO

Replacement or Retention: The Club’s Dilemma

Great players are eventually replaced, but Salah’s situation poses unique challenges. His output shows no signs of decline, and his ability to evolve adds complexity to the traditional “sell before the decline” mantra.

Liverpool’s rejection of a £150 million bid from Al-Ittihad in September 2023 suggests they still see immense value in him. However, they face a critical decision. Do they extend his contract and keep the Egyptian King, or do they cash in now and allocate resources toward a successor?

Each path carries risks. Extending Salah’s contract keeps a proven performer in the squad but might strain resources for future reinforcements. On the other hand, selling him would fund a replacement but risks losing an irreplaceable leader and creative force in the short term.

Salah’s Legacy and Liverpool’s Future

In the Anfield boot room, the philosophy has often been to let players decline elsewhere. Yet, Salah defies this logic. His adaptability, work ethic, and relentless drive make him an exception to the rule.

During a discussion with Standard Chartered, Salah shared insights into his leadership. He revealed how teammate Andy Robertson once called him out for reacting poorly to a missed chance, highlighting the ripple effect of his attitude on the team. It’s this self-awareness and willingness to learn that sets him apart—not just as a player but as a leader.

As negotiations continue, Liverpool must decide if they can afford to keep Salah while preparing for life beyond him. With his numbers, influence, and the example he sets for younger players, Salah remains a cornerstone of Liverpool’s success. Whether his story at Anfield extends or concludes, it’s clear he has already left an indelible mark.