Following a decisive 3-0 triumph over Manchester United, Mohamed Salah disclosed that he will be departing Anfield at the end of the season. The Egyptian star, renowned for being the top-scoring away player at Old Trafford in Premier League history with seven goals, contributed a goal and two assists for Luis Diaz, marking a flawless start under new manager Arne Slot. United were outmatched throughout the encounter and could have faced an even more significant defeat if Salah and his teammates had capitalized on additional late opportunities.
While his teammates reveled in the victory, Salah captured the spotlight with his post-match comments. "I had a productive summer, ample time to reflect and maintain a positive mindset. This is my final season with the club, and I intend to savor every moment," the 32-year-old shared with Sky Sports. "I feel liberated to play my game—we'll see what the future holds. No one from the club has discussed contract renewals with me; that decision lies with the club."
Slot's impressive beginning in England persisted as he became the first Liverpool manager since Bob Paisley in 1975 to win his inaugural match against United, and only the second to achieve this on the road since George Kay in 1936. Post-match, Salah's future was the dominant topic of discussion, despite the emphatic victory.
Salah has etched his name into Liverpool's annals, netting 214 times since his arrival in 2017, with Sunday's goal marking his 15th against Manchester United. He signed a lucrative three-year contract in 2022, making him the highest-paid player in the club's history, reportedly earning over £18 million annually. However, persistent rumors link him with a lucrative transfer to the Saudi Pro League, with Liverpool allegedly turning down a £150 million offer from Al-Ittihad a year ago.
Salah, alongside captain Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold, is among the key Liverpool players whose contracts expire at season's end, potentially paving the way for a move to Saudi Arabia next summer. Meanwhile, under new manager Arne Slot, Liverpool has secured victories in their first three Premier League matches without conceding, positioning them behind Manchester City at the summit based on goal difference.
"It's a significant result. It holds immense importance for the city, the fans, and the manager's debut here," Salah added. "We're thrilled with the outcome. To contend for the league, victories like these are crucial. I'm pleased we secured the win." The manager advocates for high pressing, and we've capitalized on those opportunities.
There's a subtle shift from Jurgen Klopp's initial approach, and we've adjusted our tactics slightly. We're in the process of adapting." Slot refrained from speculating on whether this would indeed be Salah's final season and the challenges of replacing him. "There are many unknowns, but for now, he's one of ours, and I'm genuinely delighted to have him on our team," Slot remarked. "I avoid discussing contracts in public, but I could extol his performance today for hours."
