Mohamed Salah’s recent comments about feeling “more out than in” at Liverpool have stirred discussion during what has otherwise been a smooth debut season for Arne Slot as head coach. Despite this, Salah’s on-field performances remain exceptional, with 12 goals and 10 assists in 18 games this season. His contributions have kept Liverpool eight points clear at the top of the Premier League and perfect in the Champions League group stage. Yet, as Salah edges closer to the end of his contract, uncertainty looms over his future at Anfield.
Salah’s frustrations about the lack of a formal contract offer echo a familiar scenario. In 2022, it took over a year for him to negotiate an extension, culminating in a three-year deal worth a base £350,000 a week. With additional income from image rights and performance-related bonuses, Salah earns significantly more, reinforcing his status as a top-tier player. Now, with only seven months left on his contract, Salah is approaching a critical juncture where he could sign a pre-contract agreement with a foreign club in just over a month.
This contract delay coincides with a transformative period for Liverpool. The departure of Jürgen Klopp last year led to major changes in the club’s structure, including the appointment of Michael Edwards as chief executive of football and Richard Hughes as sporting director. Arne Slot’s arrival introduced a new tactical approach, making it logical for both Salah and the club to assess the fit before committing to a long-term agreement.
Salah’s form has remained imperious, showcasing his resilience against the effects of age. At 32, he continues to defy expectations with his physical and technical attributes. However, Liverpool must weigh his advancing years against the substantial financial commitment a new contract would entail. This consideration extends to Virgil van Dijk, who is also out of contract next summer and faces similar questions about longevity and value.
The delay in negotiations may also stem from lingering tensions from Klopp’s final months, when Salah’s relationship with the former manager appeared strained. However, under Slot, Salah has thrived, reaffirming his importance to Liverpool’s ambitions. Given his contributions, it seems unlikely the club will let him leave without a fight.
For Salah, waiting to see how the team progresses under new leadership is understandable. Liverpool, in turn, have every reason to carefully evaluate how Salah fits into their long-term plans. Yet, the clock is ticking. Salah’s value is not only measured in goals and assists but also in what he represents as a symbol of Liverpool’s success. His performances remain crucial, especially as the team eyes a Premier League title and challenges Europe’s elite in the Champions League.
Liverpool previously demonstrated Salah’s importance by rejecting a £150m offer from Al-Ittihad, valuing his contributions over a lucrative transfer fee. That decision has been vindicated by the team’s resurgence this season. Now, the club must act decisively to ensure their talisman feels wanted and valued. Salah’s claim that no offer is on the table suggests there is work to be done, but with talks reportedly positive, it is hard to imagine Liverpool letting such a vital player walk away without making their intentions clear.
Ultimately, the outcome of these negotiations will depend on balancing Salah’s undeniable quality with the realities of his age and the club’s evolving strategy. For now, the focus will be on ensuring that Salah feels more “in” than “out” as Liverpool push forward on multiple fronts.
