Mohamed Salah, the star forward of Liverpool FC, recently sat down with former player Gary Neville to discuss a range of topics, including Liverpool’s recent Premier League title win, his impressive individual statistics, and the potential of winning the prestigious Ballon d’Or. The conversation, much like the match, was dominated by Salah’s dazzling display. It highlighted just how far manager Arne Slot has impacted his growth this season.
Salah took to social media to display his record-breaking feats with pride. This season, he counts an astonishing 46 goal involvements in the Premier League, goals plus assists. He reflected on the ways he’s adapted to find his place in a different position on the field. He pointed out that he was doing a lot more to generate opportunities for his team. Salah certainly talked a big game, but he admitted that the process of extending him was difficult. There was a time during this process when he felt his chances of signing a new deal were at just 10 percent.
The Influence of Arne Slot
Salah credited Arne Slot with reinvigorating his performance through tactical adjustments. On Slot’s innovative approach, the Egyptian wide man identified Slot’s style as contributing to him looking more at one with the game. He praised Slot for being direct about what he expected. This unusual transparency, combined with an outpouring of helpful feedback, has enabled him to reach heights never imagined.
“We had a few honest conversations between us. He was very honest, showed me a few clips of mine and said, ‘with this Mo, we can win everything. With this Mo we can’t win much. I want to get the best out of you.’” – Mo Salah
In his first year under Slot’s guidance, Salah admitted to having more freedom to impact games. In fact, he set a career high for goal contributions. He remarked on the importance of staying involved: “Now I’m involved more with the ball at my feet, I feel that confidence. If you miss it you can have it again. That’s what a player needs.”
Moving to Slot, the forward credited Slot for being respectful in how she coached the team and that allowed everyone to create an environment of collaboration. Salah emphasized how powerful he felt being able to speak candidly with Slot about his game, as well as where he needs to improve.
“He didn’t challenge me; he was very respectful… and that was great.” – Mo Salah
Record-Breaking Season and Future Goals
Salah’s 2023-24 season so far has him listed among the most elite company among Premier League forwards. He broke the record for most goals in a 38-game Premier League season. Currently, he sits just 4 goal involvements behind legends Alan Shearer and Andy Cole for total goal involvements. His commitment to ongoing improvement is reflected in his hope to break these records.
“I broke the one for 38. It is important to me… I would love to break it. I think I’ll break it.” – Mo Salah
He highlighted the collective strength of the team, noting that the infusion of young talent has revitalized Liverpool’s prospects for future titles. With the current squad optimum dynamics Salah thinks that they can fight for each and every trophy on offer.
“The players are new, excited, young… We have a very good group and we can win every trophy we want.” – Mo Salah
Beyond his team goals, though, Salah has been somewhat outspoken about individual glory. In fact, he dreams of winning the Ballon d’Or one day. While he understands that he needs to stretch himself to achieve this ambitious goal, he knows that some things are out of his control.
“I’d love to win it one day. But if it didn’t happen, I don’t know what to do.” – Mo Salah
A New Contract and Future at Liverpool
Meanwhile, Salah’s contract situation has been the subject of all-star levels of media attention over the past year. He eventually prevailed – and almost didn’t – by signing a two-year extension in April after a bitter months-long negotiation. He had previously raised concerns about getting to an agreement but ultimately came to an understanding with club leadership.
Reflecting on his contract talks, Salah mentioned: “I think the expectation for us not to win, that’s a problem… Liverpool losing that should be a surprise.” His loyalty to the team is now being questioned as he seeks more personal success and team success elsewhere.
The forward made sure to show appreciation for the club’s fan base, calling them an integral part of pushing the team while they take the field. He was clear that shipping championship trophies to fans’ doorsteps is most important to meeting their needs.
“There should be a limit to how many times the fans need to hear, ‘we go again next season’… it’s the best way to do it with a big trophy.” – Mo Salah
As Liverpool prepares to launch another assault on the topflight campaign, Salah is hopeful that his side can claim a 20th title. He is confident that their form and camaraderie could see them going all the way.
“I hope to win the Premier League title again… there’s a good chance to win it this year.” – Mo Salah
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