Mohamed Salah Accused of 'Big Baby' Behaviour at Liverpool
Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah has been subjected to scathing criticism from former England manager Sam Allardyce, who has labelled the Egyptian star's conduct as akin to that of a "big baby." This rebuke comes amid a notably difficult season for Salah, who has managed to net only four Premier League goals, with his last strike dating back to early November.
Allardyce's Blunt Assessment on Podcast
Speaking candidly on the No Tippy Tappy Football podcast, Allardyce did not mince words when addressing Salah's recent performances and attitude. He emphasised that the player needs to take personal responsibility for his lack of goals rather than blaming manager Arne Slot.
"Mohamed Salah needs to bite the bullet, sit down, and make sure he starts scoring," Allardyce asserted. "Stop blaming Arne Slot when it's your own fault that you're not scoring and getting taken off. He can't be disappointed with being taken off when he's not scoring or creating."
Allardyce pointed to what he perceives as a mental block affecting Salah, noting that the issue has persisted throughout the entire season rather than being a temporary slump. "It seems like some sort of mental block, because it's not just a spell anymore, it's the whole season. It's a worry for Liverpool and for him," he added.
On-Field Behaviour Under Scrutiny
Salah's conduct has drawn particular attention, including an angry outburst earlier in the season when his role was reduced, and a smirk displayed as he was substituted during Liverpool's victory over Nottingham Forest. Allardyce criticised this public display of frustration, urging Salah to address concerns privately.
"He needs to stop displaying his dislike for the situation on the pitch. Go and knock on the manager's door and take it up there. Don't do it in front of everyone; he's behaving like a big baby," Allardyce concluded.
Carragher Joins in Criticism
Allardyce is not alone in his critique. Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher also voiced disapproval of Salah's performance against Nottingham Forest, highlighting the impact of substitute Rio Ngumoha.
Carragher remarked, "Ngumoha did more in 15 minutes than Salah and Gakpo did before that. He changed the game and needs to be starting games. There's no-one better in getting last-minute winners in Premier League - and that is Liverpool."
Uncertain Future at Anfield
Amid this criticism, Salah's future with Liverpool remains uncertain. His contract is set to expire in 2027, yet speculation persists about a potential lucrative move to Saudi Arabia. Former footballer Rafael van der Vaart commented on the complexities of managing a high-profile player like Salah.
"There were games he performed not at his best and everyone writes him off, but over a full season, even at this age, he shows everyone how good he is," van der Vaart noted. "Having a big player and a big name is sometimes a problem for both the player and coach. When you expect certain things as a coach from him, and he doesn't do it, then of course you have the right to put him on the bench, but because it's Mohamed Salah, this can cause a massive issue."
Van der Vaart suggested that a summer transfer might benefit both parties, stating, "It could be best for both sides if Salah goes somewhere else in the summer."
As the season progresses, Salah faces mounting pressure to rediscover his form and address the criticisms levelled against him, with his behaviour and goal-scoring prowess under intense scrutiny from pundits and fans alike.
