Liverpool manager Arne Slot has expressed admiration for Mohamed Salah’s enduring influence, suggesting the Egyptian forward has the potential to achieve the same longevity in football as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Ahead of Liverpool’s high-stakes Champions League encounter against Bayer Leverkusen, Slot commended Salah’s sustained brilliance, predicting he could follow in the footsteps of football’s most celebrated icons.
During the pre-match press conference, Slot didn’t shy away from lofty comparisons, citing Salah’s exceptional physical condition and consistency.
Mo Salah can do like Messi and Cristiano in terms of impact and age,” Slot said. “At 32, he’s still showing the same energy and skill level that he’s had throughout his career.
There’s no reason to think he is dropping in terms of level.”
Slot’s remarks come as Salah continues to play a central role in Liverpool’s attack.
Known for his explosive speed, sharp finishing, and keen tactical awareness, Salah has maintained an impressive performance level, season after season, even as he approaches his mid-30s.
His influence has been undeniable, and Slot emphasized the forward’s resilience, saying, “It’s not just about his stats, but his consistency on the pitch.
He’s our engine, and we see that in every game he plays.”
Salah’s recent record backs up his manager’s confidence.
With consistent goal-scoring and playmaking numbers, he remains a cornerstone in Liverpool’s offensive setup.
As they prepare for the crucial group-stage match against a strong Leverkusen side, Slot is confident that Salah’s experience and skill will be instrumental.
Liverpool face a challenging test in Bayer Leverkusen, who have also displayed strong form this season.
Slot acknowledged that Salah’s experience will be invaluable in navigating the pressures of a crucial Champions League fixture.
The manager emphasized how Salah’s leadership on the field, paired with his vast experience in top-tier competitions, gives Liverpool an edge in difficult encounters.
“He’s not just a player who contributes to our goals but someone who inspires the entire team,” Slot added. “When you have someone who plays with the kind of poise and confidence Mo has, it lifts everyone else.
His presence is vital for us, especially in games like this.”
With Liverpool’s sights set on progressing in Europe, Salah’s role as a senior figure and match-winner becomes even more crucial.
His consistency and impact mirror the influence that Messi and Ronaldo have brought to their teams for well over a decade.
Slot pointed out that while Salah may not seek the spotlight, his contributions often make the difference in high-stakes moments.
The comparisons with Messi and Ronaldo are not merely superficial.
Both players have redefined the concept of longevity in football, consistently performing at the highest level well into their thirties.
Slot believes Salah, with his dedication to fitness and unyielding drive, could achieve a similar legacy.
“Salah’s commitment to his own development is what sets him apart,” Slot explained. “Players of his calibre don’t come around often, and his ambition is clear.
He doesn’t want to be remembered only for his past achievements; he’s still as hungry as ever to contribute to Liverpool’s success.”
With the upcoming match against Leverkusen, Salah has another opportunity to showcase his enduring quality.
As the Champions League progresses, Liverpool’s ambitions will undoubtedly rest on his shoulders, with fans and teammates looking to him for the inspiration that has defined his time at Anfield.
As the season unfolds, Slot’s praise for Salah reflects the respect and trust the manager holds for his star player.
With comparisons to Messi and Ronaldo highlighting his potential for a lasting legacy, Salah stands poised to write yet another chapter in his remarkable career.
