Mohamed Salah tipped for Messi-level stardom in MLS

Vladimir Smicer has backed Mohamed Salah to reach unprecedented global heights if he opts for a move to Major League Soccer this summer.

The former Liverpool star insists the Egyptian forward could replicate the cultural impact of Lionel Messi in the United States.

Salah is approaching the final weeks of his Liverpool career, with the 33-year-old set to depart at the end of the season after a transformative spell at Anfield.

His absence from the squad during Wednesday night’s clash with Paris Saint-Germain only reinforced the sense of transition under manager Arne Slot, who appears to be preparing for a future without one of the club’s most iconic modern figures.

Speculation surrounding Salah’s next destination has intensified, with strong indications pointing towards either the Saudi Pro League or MLS as the likely landing spots.

Both options offer contrasting appeals, financially and culturally, but Smicer believes the American route presents a more compelling stage for the forward’s enduring influence.

Speaking to BetVictor, the former Liverpool midfielder outlined his reasoning, highlighting the rapid growth of football in the United States and the unique platform it offers elite players in the latter stages of their careers.

“Salah to MLS or Saudi? It depends on which culture he wants to go to, but they will love him everywhere. I think in the US, for me, football is growing there. The stadiums are starting to fill.”

Smicer’s endorsement of MLS is rooted not only in its commercial rise but also in its ability to elevate global icons into cultural phenomena, as seen with Messi’s arrival.

“If I was in his position, I’d go to the US. But we’ll see what he’s going to decide. Maybe he can surprise us and he can stay in Europe. You never know.”

Central to Smicer’s argument is the belief that Salah’s profile aligns perfectly with MLS’s expanding audience and entertainment-driven ecosystem.

“But in the US, he would be a megastar like Lionel Messi,” he added, drawing a direct comparison that underscores the scale of potential impact awaiting the Egyptian forward.

Beyond his future, Smicer also reflected on Salah’s recent performances, suggesting that tactical disruptions have contributed to a less fluid season. He pointed specifically to the absence of Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose long-standing partnership with Salah had been a defining feature of Liverpool’s attacking rhythm.

“I think a big reason it hasn’t worked out this season is because he lost Trent Alexander-Arnold as a right back,” Smicer explained, pointing to the challenges posed by rotating alternatives such as Conor Bradley, Jeremie Frimpong, and Dominik Szoboszlai in wider roles.