The atmosphere at Anfield fractured this weekend after Liverpool’s thrilling, yet unsettling, 3-3 draw with Leeds United. The tension wasn’t just about dropped points; it centered on a simmering discontent, finally brought to the surface by Mohamed Salah’s explosive post-match statements.
For three consecutive games, Salah was relegated to the bench, a decision that clearly ignited a fire within the Egyptian superstar. He didn’t mince words, accusing the club of using him as a scapegoat for deeper, systemic issues plaguing the team. A fractured relationship with manager Arne Slot and a feeling of being deliberately undermined were laid bare.
Commentators rushed to criticize Salah’s recent performances, whispering about decline and lost form. But a closer examination of the data reveals a startling truth: Salah isn’t the problem, the system is failing him. The narrative of fading power is a convenient distraction from a more uncomfortable reality.
Despite limited playing time and the team’s overall struggles, statistics demonstrate Salah remains a vital creative force. He’s currently ranked fourth in the Premier League for chances created, a testament to his enduring ability to unlock defenses even when isolated.
The issue isn’t a lack of skill, but a lack of service. Salah is receiving 30% fewer touches per game compared to his average over the last three seasons. Even more telling, he’s seeing almost 40% fewer touches inside the opposition’s penalty area, effectively marooned on the periphery of attacks.
A player doesn’t simply lose his world-class ability overnight. These numbers expose a systemic failure to utilize a player who consistently needs minimal opportunity to deliver devastating results. The drop in output is a direct consequence of a dwindling supply of the ball.
Adding to the mystery, Salah is actually covering *more* ground per game this season than he did last, suggesting increased effort and willingness to contribute, despite being marginalized. This dedication is happening while his impact is being stifled.
The problems extend beyond Salah. Liverpool’s attack, as a whole, has appeared strangely muted under Arne Slot. While Dominik Szoboszlai has performed consistently, the expensive new additions are struggling to find their footing.
The performance of new signings like Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz is particularly concerning. Isak has endured games with shockingly few touches, while Wirtz hasn’t replicated his Bundesliga brilliance. A manager unable to unlock the potential of three world-class attackers simultaneously must face scrutiny.
Slot’s persistent selection of Cody Gakpo, despite underwhelming performances, coupled with the repeated benching of Salah under the guise of tactical decisions, raises serious questions. Is there a sporting rationale, or is something else at play?
The timing of Salah’s exclusion has fueled speculation of a deliberate strategy. Is this a calculated move orchestrated by the club’s hierarchy? Sporting Director Richard Hughes and CEO of Football Michael Edwards are now under the microscope.
A growing theory suggests Salah is being scapegoated to facilitate a transfer. With Saudi Arabian clubs still keenly interested, Liverpool stands to profit immensely from his sale. The timing feels less about performance and more about maximizing financial gain.
The contract extension Salah signed in April 2025 now appears less like a commitment to his future and more like a shrewd business maneuver to protect his market value. By extending his deal, the club ensured they wouldn’t lose their prized asset for free.
Now, by publicly diminishing his influence and portraying him as the source of the team’s problems, Liverpool may be preparing to sell him in January for a substantial profit – a strategy Salah, in his raw and revealing interview, clearly anticipates.
