Liverpool are facing growing internal tensions after Mohamed Salah publicly criticised the club’s direction following another disappointing defeat, according to reports in the British media.
The Egyptian forward, who is expected to leave Anfield at the end of the season after nine years at the club, sparked controversy after posting a strongly worded message on social media in the aftermath of Liverpool’s loss to Aston Villa last Friday.
The comments, interpreted by sections of the British press as a direct attack on manager Arne Slot and the team’s current trajectory, have reportedly exposed divisions inside the dressing room and intensified scrutiny on the Dutch coach.
Salah’s statement expressed frustration over Liverpool’s performances this season, lamenting what he described as declining standards and a loss of identity within the side.
He wrote: “I have witnessed this club go from doubters to believers, and from believers to champions. It took hard work and I always did everything I could to help the club get there. Nothing makes me prouder than that. Us crumbling to yet another defeat this season was very painful…”
The post quickly gained widespread attention online and prompted debate among supporters over the club’s direction under Slot, who replaced Jurgen Klopp.
According to a report by the Daily Mail, Salah’s remarks were not viewed as an emotional reaction alone, but as a deliberate public challenge that has divided opinion among both players and fans.
The relationship between Salah and Slot had reportedly become strained in recent months. Tensions are said to have increased since December amid disagreements over tactics, media comments and repeated occasions in which the forward was left out of the starting line-up.
The Daily Mail reported that some players have openly aligned themselves with Salah’s frustrations. Midfielder Curtis Jones was among those to publicly support the forward’s stance, describing Liverpool’s campaign as being “nowhere near the level expected at this club”.
However, not all senior figures at Anfield are believed to share the same view. Captain Virgil van Dijk has reportedly resisted criticism directed at the squad and management, defending the team during a difficult period.
Football analysts quoted in the British media suggested Salah’s decision to speak publicly reflected an awareness of his influence among supporters as he approaches the end of his Liverpool career.
The report contrasted the current situation with an incident involving former manager Jurgen Klopp two years ago, when Salah backed away from a public disagreement during a touchline exchange. According to the Daily Mail, Salah recognised Klopp’s strong standing with supporters at the time, whereas Slot does not command the same level of authority during his first season in charge.
The article argued that Salah’s intervention has increased pressure on Slot at a critical stage, with the manager now facing questions not only about results but also about his control within the dressing room.
Liverpool’s situation has also prompted comparisons with previous high-profile departures in English football. The report referenced Manchester United’s decision in 2003 to sell David Beckham to Real Madrid following tensions with Sir Alex Ferguson.
Although Ferguson retained his position of strength at Old Trafford, Manchester United reportedly endured a three-year wait before reclaiming the league title as they attempted to replace Beckham’s influence and output.
Liverpool may now face a similarly difficult transition should Salah leave this summer. The forward has been central to the club’s success during his time at Anfield, helping transform Liverpool into domestic and European champions.
With uncertainty growing over the club’s future direction, Slot is expected to come under increasing pressure to restore unity within the squad and reassure supporters ahead of next season.
