Egypt Director Warns Salah Against MLS Move, Urges Europe or Saudi Arabia
Mohamed Salah has been cautioned by Egypt's national team director, Ibrahim Hassan, against a potential move to Major League Soccer when he departs Liverpool at the end of the season. The forward, who has yet to announce his next career step, is concluding a highly successful nine-year tenure at Liverpool, where he secured two Premier League titles and the Champions League.
Hassan's Stark Warning on Diminished Spotlight
In an interview with On Sport, Hassan expressed a strong preference for Salah to remain in Europe, citing offers from clubs such as Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, and teams in the Italian league. He warned that transitioning to MLS could significantly reduce Salah's visibility on the global stage. "A move to MLS? He would be far too out of the spotlight," Hassan stated. "You won't remember Salah any more than I remember Lionel Messi now; I don't even try to watch him."
This comparison references Messi's move to Inter Miami in 2023, following his illustrious career with Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, where he became the club's all-time top scorer after winning the World Cup with Argentina.
Alternative Options: Saudi Pro League and European Clubs
Hassan suggested that if Salah does not receive suitable offers from Europe, the Saudi Pro League would be a viable alternative, especially with high-profile players like Cristiano Ronaldo already in the league. "If he does not receive offers from Europe, then a move to the Saudi league would be a good option," he added. Hassan, who is the twin brother of Egypt's head coach Hossam Hassan, emphasized the importance of maintaining Salah's prominence in world football.
Salah's Current Situation and Egypt's Preparations
Currently, Salah is sidelined due to injury and is absent from Egypt's training camp as the team prepares for the upcoming World Cup in North America. Egypt recently secured a 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia in Jeddah and is set to face Spain in a friendly match in Barcelona. The team, a seven-time African champion, is placed in Group G alongside Belgium, New Zealand, and Iran for the tournament.
MLS commissioner Don Garber has expressed interest in bringing Salah to the league, though it remains uncertain whether any teams will pursue the 33-year-old forward. As Salah's future hangs in the balance, his legacy at Liverpool is set to be remembered fondly, with his achievements solidifying his status among the club's legends.
