Egyptian football icon Mohamed Aboutrika has suggested that tensions with manager Arne Slot contributed to the decision of Mohamed Salah to leave Liverpool at the end of the season.
Salah, 33, confirmed last month that he will bring his nine-year spell at Anfield to a close, ending a highly successful period in which he scored 255 goals in 436 appearances and helped secure multiple major trophies. His next move is widely expected to be to the Saudi Pro League, where lucrative contracts have attracted several high-profile players in recent years.
Speaking in a recent interview, Aboutrika indicated that behind-the-scenes issues may have influenced Salah’s choice. He pointed to what he described as a difficult relationship between the forward and Slot in recent months.
“One of the reasons behind Mohamed Salah leaving Liverpool is the presence of Arne Slot, because we’ve seen issues in the recent period… You, Slot, pushed the man away,” Aboutrika told winwinallsports, as per TeamTalk.
While Liverpool have not publicly commented on any disagreement, Aboutrika’s remarks add to growing speculation about internal dynamics at the club during the current campaign.
Salah has been one of Liverpool’s most influential players since joining in 2017, playing a central role in the club’s domestic and European successes. His consistency in front of goal and ability to deliver in key moments have made him a fan favourite and one of the Premier League’s standout performers over the past decade.
Aboutrika also suggested that Salah’s contractual situation may have been a factor in his thinking. The forward was tied to a relatively short-term deal, which may have shaped his outlook on his future at the club.
“Salah only had a two-year contract with Liverpool… Salah wants to work with peace of mind and enjoy the next phase of his career,” he said.
The former Egypt international added that Salah’s achievements speak for themselves, implying that the player no longer needs to prove his worth to anyone within the game.
“Salah doesn’t need any validation from Slot or anyone else.”
Liverpool now face the prospect of replacing one of their most prolific forwards in modern history. Salah’s departure will mark the end of an era for the club, with questions remaining about how they will fill the significant gap left by his exit.
As attention turns to the summer transfer window, the club’s next steps, both in terms of recruitment and internal management, are likely to come under increased scrutiny. Meanwhile, Salah’s anticipated move abroad signals a new chapter in a career that has already secured his place among the game’s elite.
