Former Star Advocates for Salah's Summer Exit from Liverpool
Rafael van der Vaart, the former Premier League midfielder, has publicly advised that Mohamed Salah should seek a transfer away from Liverpool during the upcoming summer window. This recommendation comes as clubs from the Saudi Pro League maintain a persistent interest in acquiring the Egyptian forward, whose future at Anfield appears increasingly uncertain.
Public Dispute and Bench Role Underpin Tensions
The suggestion follows a highly visible disagreement between Salah and Liverpool in December, which erupted after the attacker was repeatedly relegated to the substitutes' bench by manager Arne Slot. Salah openly criticised this treatment and hinted at a potential January departure, though he later apologised to his teammates before joining Egypt's Africa Cup of Nations squad.
His omission from the Champions League victory over Inter Milan preceded a return to the matchday lineup for the 2-0 win against Brighton and Hove Albion, following direct discussions with Slot. Despite this reconciliation, the summer transfer period could mark the conclusion of Salah's tenure with the Reds, as Saudi Arabian sides continue to circle.
Van der Vaart Cites Age and Pace Decline
Van der Vaart contends that Salah's advancing age has diminished his once-formidable speed and agility, making a move beneficial for all involved. "When I look at Mohamed Salah and the position he plays on the pitch, he has lost that extra half yard and the pace is gone with age," he told Sky Bet. "He used to be so quick and would run at players, but I can see now that it is different and this is because of his age."
He contrasted this with defender Virgil van Dijk, noting that age is less critical for a centre-back. "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."
Big-Name Player Creates Managerial Headaches
The Dutch pundit also highlighted the challenges that high-profile players like Salah can pose for coaches. "Having a big player and a big name is sometimes a problem for both the player and coach," Van der Vaart explained. "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 – in every press conference every question will be on Salah."
He concluded that "it could be best for both sides if Salah goes somewhere else in the summer," emphasising that a fresh start might alleviate ongoing pressures.
Van der Vaart Backs Slot to Revive Liverpool Fortunes
While advocating for Salah's exit, Van der Vaart expressed unwavering confidence in manager Arne Slot's ability to steer Liverpool back to success. "Arne Slot is the man that can turn things around at Liverpool, I believe this 100%," he asserted.
He cautioned against expecting instant improvements from heavy spending, referencing Liverpool's £500 million summer investment. "Spending £500m in the summer gives you no guarantee that the team is going to be better, and we've seen this," he noted. "Football is sometimes a game of luck and now they're in a phase where the luck is not on their side. I really hope that Liverpool stay calm and keep Slot because he can turn it around."
Liverpool's Current Challenges Under Slot
Liverpool face a critical period under Slot's leadership, with the primary objective being to secure Champions League qualification for the next season. After winning the Premier League in Slot's debut campaign, the team has experienced a regression in league results despite significant summer expenditures.
The race for a top-four or top-five finish remains wide open, adding urgency to Liverpool's efforts to stabilise their form and safeguard Slot's position in the coming months.
