Salah, now 32, has solidified his legacy at Anfield, scoring 219 goals and leading Liverpool to several key trophies, including the 2019 Champions League and the 2020 Premier League title.
His rise to stardom at Liverpool has run parallel with Jurgen Klopp’s reign, with Klopp bringing Salah in from Roma back in 2017…Continue Reading
Although Salah is often viewed as a dedicated family man and a true professional who inspires young players worldwide, there was one incident that stirred up tension among his teammates.
In December 2020, Salah was interviewed by Spanish news outlet AS. During the interview, Salah expressed his disappointment about not being chosen as captain for a Champions League match against Midtjylland.
For that game, Klopp fielded a rotated lineup, with Salah as one of the few regulars, even scoring within the first minute.
However, the captain’s armband went to then 22-year-old Trent Alexander-Arnold, leaving Salah feeling slighted.
“Honestly, I was very disappointed,” admitted Salah. “I was hoping to be the captain, but it’s a coach’s decision. I accept it.”
In the same interview, Salah expressed admiration for Real Madrid and Barcelona, which, according to the Daily Mail, was perceived as an effort to appeal to Spanish fans.
The report also indicates that some Liverpool players felt Salah’s comments showed a lack of respect toward Alexander-Arnold.
The interview was published just before Liverpool’s game against Crystal Palace, where Salah started on the bench.
Many Liverpool players viewed this decision as Klopp’s way of asserting his authority over Salah.
It’s rumored that Klopp and Salah’s relationship shifted after the interview, as some members of the backroom staff noted a change in their dynamic.
Sources suggest that Salah was not entirely receptive to Klopp’s ‘father figure’ management style, as he didn’t see the need for a manager to shape him personally.
The most recent clash between the two happened during Liverpool’s 2-2 draw against West Ham in April 2024.
In that match, Salah and Klopp appeared to exchange heated words when Klopp substituted him for Luis Diaz in the 79th minute.
Their frustrations seemed unresolved after the game, as Salah stopped to speak to reporters waiting in the mixed zone at the London Stadium.
“If I speak, there will be fire,” said Salah. “Fire?” a reporter replied.
“Yes, of course,” Salah answered.
But, Klopp insisted that the ill-feeling was “done” after the pair spoke in the dressing room.
In years to come, this will simply be a footnote connected to Klopp and Salah’s time together at Liverpool.
