Sethi: “Champions League the litmus test for Salah’s Ballon d’Or hopes” | OneFootball

Mohamed Salah: Liverpool’s Ballon d’Or Hopeful

As the footballing world enters a new year, the Ballon d’Or conversation is already heating up, with Mohamed Salah’s name firmly in the mix. In the latest Big Decisions podcast on Anfield Index, hosts Hari Sethi and Dave Davis explored Salah’s chances of winning football’s most coveted individual award. Their discussion highlighted the Egyptian King’s enduring brilliance and the factors shaping his campaign.

Salah’s Case for the Ballon d’Or

When it comes to the Ballon d’Or, the numbers speak volumes, and Salah’s are staggering. As Dave Davis pointed out, “He’s not just Liverpool’s most consistent player, but arguably the Premier League’s standout performer.”

Under the guidance of new Liverpool manager Arne Slot, Salah has continued to thrive. Hari Sethi remarked, “The beauty of Salah is his relentless ability to deliver, whether it’s goals, assists, or those moments of pure magic that shift games.”

Comparisons with Past Winners

The debate naturally veered toward comparisons with previous Ballon d’Or winners. Sethi drew attention to the broader narrative surrounding the award: “The Ballon d’Or has historically been about more than just numbers. It’s about moments, influence, and impact.”

Salah has delivered plenty of those moments. From crucial goals in Liverpool’s Champions League campaign to inspiring performances in the Premier League, he has consistently been the player opponents fear most. Davis observed, “What sets Salah apart is his consistency at the highest level, year after year.”

The European Stage: A Deciding Factor?

One of the key talking points during the podcast was the significance of European success in the Ballon d’Or race. Hari Sethi noted, “Let’s face it, the Champions League is the litmus test. If Salah can guide Liverpool deep into the tournament or lift the trophy, his case becomes undeniable.”

Dave Davis agreed, adding, “The Ballon d’Or loves a Champions League hero, and if Liverpool go all the way, Salah could cement his legacy.”

Salah’s Rivals and the Road Ahead

While Salah’s form is undeniable, the competition for the Ballon d’Or is fierce. Players like Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, and Lionel Messi are also in contention. Sethi acknowledged, “It’s not just about Salah being exceptional; it’s about how he stacks up against other generational talents.”

However, Davis highlighted the unique edge Salah brings to the table: “He’s not just a goal scorer. He’s a leader, an icon, and someone who elevates his entire team.”

A Worthy Contender

The Big Decisions podcast encapsulated the excitement and challenges surrounding Mohamed Salah’s Ballon d’Or hopes. As Hari Sethi summarised, “Salah’s journey is more than just statistics—it’s about his ability to define moments and inspire fans.”

For Liverpool supporters, the dream of seeing their Egyptian King crowned as the world’s best is alive and well. With a strong start to 2025 under Slot’s leadership, the stage is set for Salah to add the ultimate individual accolade to his glittering career.