Mohamed Salah appeared “devastated” and “broken” during half-time of Liverpool FC’s heavy defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter-finals, according to former City goalkeeper Joe Hart.
City secured a commanding 4-0 victory at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, becoming the first side to book a place in the semi-finals of the FA Cup. However, much of the post-match discussion centred on Salah’s unusually subdued display.
Hart, speaking after the match, said the Egyptian forward showed signs of low confidence from early in the game, pointing to a missed chance as an early indication of his struggles.
“We’re so used to seeing Mo Salah being a confident player. It was difficult watching him today, actually,” Hart said.
“That first opportunity he had where the block was made was a tell-tale sign. He struggled and he looked low on confidence. We saw him walking in at half-time and he was devastated. Absolutely devastated.
“We saw him come out for the second half looking completely downcast!”
Liverpool were already 2-0 down at the break, and Salah’s difficulties continued after the restart. The 33-year-old missed a penalty before eventually being substituted, capping what observers described as a rare off-day for one of the Premier League’s most consistent performers.
Hart suggested that Salah’s body language, both during the match and as he left the pitch, reflected a player lacking his usual assurance. The forward, widely regarded for his composure in front of goal, appeared unable to influence the contest as City dominated proceedings.
The defeat represents a significant setback for Liverpool, who had been aiming to progress deep into the competition. For Manchester City, meanwhile, the result underlines their strong form as they pursue further domestic silverware.
Attention now turns quickly to European competition, where Salah and Liverpool will have an opportunity to respond. The club is set to face Paris Saint-Germain in the quarter-finals of the Champions League on Wednesday, a fixture that could provide the forward with a chance to rediscover his scoring touch.
Despite the disappointing performance, Salah’s track record suggests he remains a key figure for Liverpool. His ability to recover from setbacks has been demonstrated throughout his career, and the upcoming match against PSG may prove a crucial moment in his season.
Liverpool supporters will be hoping their talisman can return to form quickly, as the team seeks to keep its European ambitions alive following their FA Cup exit.
