Mohamed Salah has been Liverpool’s star for almost a decade, helping define the club’s modern era. He’s a club legend, a commercial icon, and one of their best-ever players. But even legends face moments of uncertainty. With Arne Slot sometimes leaving him on the bench and transfer rumors heating up, it’s clear Salah has been thinking about life after Liverpool for some time.
This isn’t new. His thoughts about leaving, ambitions, and quiet frustrations have been developing over years, hinted at in interviews, comments, and private decisions.
This article looks at Salah’s mindset about leaving Liverpool, the signs he’s dropped publicly, his frustrations with contract policies, his admiration for Barcelona and Real Madrid, and how the Saudi Pro League nearly signed him. Arne Slot’s recent choices have also made the situation more delicate.
1. Early Interest in Spain
Back in December 2020, Liverpool were champions, Salah was at his peak, and leaving seemed unlikely. But in an interview with Spanish media, Salah openly discussed his interest in Real Madrid and Barcelona. Fans saw it as casual, but Spain’s top clubs noticed. That moment was the start of a slow-building story of him considering a move.
2. Contract Issues Reveal Frustration
In early 2021, Salah entered tense contract talks with Liverpool. While he expressed a desire to stay, he also showed frustration with the club’s approach. Liverpool had a policy against giving long, high-paying contracts to players over 30. Salah, consistently performing at a high level, felt undervalued. This was a turning point in his relationship with the club.
3. Firmino’s Exit and Salah’s Reflection
By 2024, Liverpool were rebuilding. Sadio Mané had left, and Roberto Firmino, Salah’s close teammate, also departed. Salah, usually upbeat and driven, showed rare vulnerability as he considered his own future at the club