Egyptian football icon Mohamed Aboutrika has suggested that Liverpool manager Arne Slot played a significant role in Mohamed Salah’s decision to leave the club at the end of the current season.
Salah recently confirmed that he will depart Anfield after nearly nine years, bringing to a close one of the most successful spells by a player in the club’s modern history. His final appearance at the Etihad Stadium is set to come in Liverpool’s FA Cup quarter-final clash against Manchester City, marking the end of an era for both the player and the club.
A Decision Shaped by Recent Developments
Speaking during a broadcast on beIN SPORTS, Aboutrika indicated that while he was not fully aware of all the circumstances behind Salah’s decision, the influence of Slot could not be ignored.
“Salah knows best about his decision and why he made it. I am not aware of all the circumstances, but one of the reasons is Slout. We saw the crises during the recent period… Slout pushed Mohamed Salah to leave.”
The remarks point to underlying tensions in recent months, which may have contributed to Salah’s choice to seek a new chapter elsewhere.
A Legacy Beyond Question
Despite the circumstances surrounding his departure, Aboutrika was emphatic in his praise for Salah’s achievements, insisting that the forward’s legacy requires no external validation.
“He doesn’t need a certificate from anyone, not from Slot or anyone else.”
Over the course of his time at Liverpool, Salah has amassed an impressive collection of individual and team honours, consistently delivering high-level performances across multiple seasons.
“I hope he bids farewell to Liverpool with a championship, but he doesn’t need any other championships. Salah is one of the players who quickly win hearts. God has given him acceptance. We have seen nine fruitful years for Liverpool with Salah, all titles and individual and collective awards. Every season he gave the fans different things.”
Remembering a Golden Era
Aboutrika also reflected on Salah’s role in one of Liverpool’s most celebrated attacking trios, alongside Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino during the tenure of former manager Jurgen Klopp.
“With Klopp, we saw the trio of Firmino, Sadio Mane, and Mohamed Salah. They were playing top-class football. Salah had nine unforgettable years, and it is the numbers and achievements that immortalize a player’s career. We enjoyed his career, and all subsequent generations will learn from him.”
He further highlighted the respect Salah commands from rivals, including Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola.
“Look how Pep Guardiola spoke about him. Salah was one of his rivals and scored the most goals against the teams he coached.”
Personal Relationship and Future Plans
Aboutrika revealed that he has discussed potential next steps with Salah, though he emphasised that the final decision rests solely with the player.
“I spoke with him and told him about the preferred destination to go there. My relationship with him is one of brotherhood and friendship. I love him for the sake of God and I will not use my relationship with him for work. I told him my point of view on his next destination. Salah does not need anyone to guide him or give him advice.”
Their relationship dates back to their time together in the Egyptian national team, where Salah has often cited Aboutrika as a role model.
End of an Era at Anfield
Salah’s impending departure marks the conclusion of a remarkable chapter at Liverpool, defined by consistency, trophies, and a deep connection with supporters.
While questions remain over the precise reasons behind his exit, Aboutrika’s comments provide insight into the dynamics that may have influenced the decision. As Salah prepares to move on, his legacy at the club appears firmly secured, with his contributions set to be remembered for years to come.
