Mo Salah will play his final game for Liverpool after nine years at the club, bringing an end to one of the most dazzling careers of the Premier League era. The sun will shine on the Egyptian at Anfield on Sunday, then set on his time at the spiritual home he found as a 25-year-old.
A Legendary Tenure
After making only a moderate impact at four European clubs, Salah arrived at Liverpool nine years ago and will leave as a deity. In the run-up to his 442nd and final appearance, his social media remarks about a return to 'heavy metal football' have sparked debate. However, the disconnect between pundits and the overwhelming majority of Liverpool fans is significant.
Fallout with Arne Slot
Wayne Rooney suggested Slot should not involve Salah in the squad for the match against Brentford, but many see this as mischievous. If Slot leaves a fit Salah out, it would be his last meaningful decision as Liverpool manager. The supporters will not give a second thought to words considered a slight against Slot; most welcomed those remarks.
Numbers and Thrill
Salah will be proud of his Liverpool numbers: 257 goals and 122 assists, along with remarkable durability. By calculation, he has only been unavailable for 21 weeks over nine years. But his career has been about the thrill, the anticipation that generates a buzz inside the stadium—a feeling hard to write down but akin to the expectancy when Lionel Messi took possession.
Time to Move On
The buzz has ebbed away over this season and Liverpool's feeble title defence, making it the right time for Salah to leave at 34. It is best for player and club. But memories of his magnificence are fresh enough to get the great stadium out of its seat one final time. The sun will set on his Liverpool career, but his place in Anfield's firmament is assured.
