Former England striker Michael Owen has suggested that a return of Mohamed Salah to Liverpool FC cannot be ruled out, despite the forward leaving the club at the end of last season.
Salah brought an end to his nine-year spell at Anfield after departing on a free transfer following the mutual termination of his contract. His exit marked the conclusion of one of the most influential individual careers in recent Premier League history.
However, Owen believes the situation may not be as final as it appears, arguing that managerial changes at the club could still influence previously made decisions regarding squad planning and player departures.
Managerial Changes Fuel Speculation
Owen pointed to recent changes in Liverpool’s coaching structure, including the departure of Arne Slot and the arrival of Andoni Iraola, as factors that could lead to a reassessment of earlier choices made by the club.
In his view, such transitions sometimes create opportunities for reconsideration of major decisions, including high-profile exits.
He said: “Is it impossible to reverse the decision? I think it is not unlikely that if Slot had been sacked during the season, Salah would have completed his contract under a new coach.”
Owen suggested that the timing of managerial changes can significantly alter a club’s direction, potentially reopening discussions that had previously appeared closed.
“Not Impossible” for a Reversal
While acknowledging that Salah has already left, Owen insisted that the idea of a return should not be dismissed entirely, even if it would be complicated.
He added: “I don’t think it’s impossible. Perhaps they overreacted, and after he’s gone it may be difficult to reverse the decision.”
The former striker went on to argue that earlier changes in leadership might have allowed Salah to remain at the club longer, underlining the influence of coaching decisions on player futures.
He continued: “If Slott had been sacked several rounds before the end of the season, it might have been possible to reverse the decision, and perhaps that scenario is still possible.”
Liverpool’s Recruitment Needs Highlighted
Beyond discussing Salah’s future, Owen also turned his attention to Liverpool’s squad needs following the Egyptian’s departure.
He identified West Ham United winger Jarrod Bowen as a potential option to strengthen the right side of Liverpool’s attack.
Owen said: “Liverpool need a right winger, and I think Jarrod Bowen is an excellent solution. They also desperately need a center-back.”
He also raised concerns about defensive depth, noting that recent signings in the back line have struggled with injuries, leaving the squad vulnerable and in need of reinforcement ahead of the next phase of the season.
Questions Over Iraola Appointment
Owen also commented on new head coach Andoni Iraola’s appointment, describing him as an intriguing but unproven choice at elite level.
He expressed optimism about the Spaniard’s potential while acknowledging uncertainty over his ability to manage at a club of Liverpool’s stature.
He said: “He is young and ambitious, and his playing style is familiar to Liverpool fans, but the question is: Will he succeed at this level? And will he maintain the same level throughout the season?”
Despite the questions, Owen remained broadly positive about the appointment, suggesting that managerial decisions do not always appear successful on paper but can develop into strong long-term outcomes.
He concluded: “I am excited about this appointment. Not every decision looks perfect on paper, but it can turn into a great success over time.”
International Focus for Salah
Meanwhile, Salah and the Egypt national team are preparing for their next World Cup group-stage fixture against New Zealand, scheduled for the early hours of Monday morning.
The match represents Egypt’s second game of the 2026 World Cup group stage as they continue their campaign on the international stage.
