This post has already been read 103 times!
Mohamed Salah let his football — not his words — do the talking after Liverpool’s recent victory at Nottingham Forest.
The Egyptian forward was among the first players out of the dressing room on Sunday, politely declining media requests as he headed straight for the team bus. For a player who made headlines just weeks ago with a fiery interview, the quiet exit spoke volumes.
But beneath the calm exterior lies a fascinating subplot at Anfield: a superstar still delivering for the team, yet operating below the extraordinary standards he set for himself.
From Elland Road Frustration to Anfield Focus
It has been just over two months since Salah’s explosive mixed-zone comments following Liverpool’s match at Leeds United. At the time, the 33-year-old suggested he felt pushed aside after being left out of the starting lineup multiple times under manager Arne Slot.
“I don’t know why but it seems to me that someone doesn’t want me in the club,” Salah said.
Those comments sent shockwaves through the Liverpool fanbase.
Sources later indicated Salah had considered issuing a statement on social media instead. However, his frustration boiled over, and he chose to speak publicly. Importantly, the situation was quickly repaired:
- Salah apologised to his team-mates
- He held positive talks with Slot
- Liverpool internally moved on
What followed may have been the reset he needed.
Afcon Boost: The Happiest Salah in Years
During the Africa Cup of Nations in January, insiders within the Egypt camp described a visibly refreshed Salah.
One member of the national setup told BBC Sport it was “the happiest we have seen him,” with the forward himself calling it “the best camp” of his career.
Since returning to Liverpool:
- Salah has started every match
- His work rate off the ball has improved
- His overall involvement remains high
Slot himself recently praised the winger’s defensive contribution — a sign the manager values more than just goals.
The Numbers: Solid — But Not Vintage Salah
For most forwards, Salah’s recent output would be considered strong. Since returning from Afcon he has registered:
- 2 goals
- 4 assists
- 10 total Premier League goal involvements this season
Notably, he still ranks ahead of high-profile attackers like Cole Palmer and Bukayo Saka in league goal contributions.
However, Salah is not judged by normal standards.
The Real Concern: Premier League Goal Drought
The key talking point is simple but striking.
Salah has not scored in the Premier League since November.
If he fails to find the net against West Ham at Anfield, the drought will reach 10 league games — the longest of his Liverpool career.
Manager Arne Slot addressed the situation calmly:
“He sets his own standards and those are so, so high that the moment he doesn’t score for a few games, people are immediately surprised.”
And that is exactly the dilemma.
Underlying Metrics Show the Dip
Data from this season confirms a noticeable drop in attacking output.
Salah: Last Season vs This Season
- Goals + assists per game: 1.25 → 0.56
- Expected goals (xG) per 90: 0.68 → 0.34
- Shots per game: Down
- Touches in opposition box: Down
In simple terms, his direct attacking impact has more than halved compared to last season’s elite levels.
Yet context matters.
Why Liverpool Are Remaining Calm
Despite the dip, there is no panic inside Anfield — and for good reason.
1. Salah’s Proven Track Record
This is not the first time he has experienced a mini-drought. Historically, Salah tends to respond with explosive scoring runs.
2. Tactical Demands Under Slot
Liverpool’s evolving system asks more of Salah defensively and in pressing phases. Increased workload without the ball can naturally reduce pure goal output.
3. Age and Load Management
At 33, Liverpool are likely managing Salah’s minutes and responsibilities more carefully to extend his effectiveness.
4. Overall Contribution Still Strong
Even without peak scoring numbers, Salah continues to:
- Create chances
- Stretch defences
- Contribute defensively
- Lead the front line
What Happens Next?
Short Term
Expect Salah to break the drought sooner rather than later. His underlying movement and involvement suggest the goals will return.
Medium Term
Liverpool may begin gradually integrating a long-term successor on the right wing while still relying heavily on Salah.
Long Term
The club will eventually face a major decision: extend their Egyptian talisman further or begin a full attacking rebuild.