Aiyegbeni Yakubu claims Salah struggles to keep up with Premier League intensity

After watching Everton’s gritty 1-0 win over Manchester United, Yakubu Aiyegbeni shared his view in a wide-ranging interview, assessing the physical demands top attackers now face in England.

The former Nigeria striker believes Mohamed Salah still delivers decisive moments, yet no longer shows the explosive influence that once defined his peak years at Liverpool.

Premier League defenders now close down the Egyptian forward far quicker than in previous seasons, and the league’s relentless pace exposes the drop in his acceleration.

Yakubu pointed out that age and years of top-level football eventually catch up with every attacker, and Salah is no exception.

In his assessment, Liverpool’s talisman increasingly depends on sharp movement, awareness, and timing rather than the blistering bursts that once terrified backlines across the division.

Describing this shift as a natural evolution, Yakubu also highlighted how unforgiving the Premier League has become for players over 30, especially those in wide attacking roles.

Despite the physical adjustment, Salah remains Liverpool’s most reliable source of goals, though continued adaptation will be essential for maintaining that influence.

Yakubu noted that the league’s tempo rises every season, creating constant challenges even for elite players who have dominated for years.

His remarks add to the growing debate about Salah’s long-term future at Anfield, particularly with Liverpool entering a period of transition and interest from clubs outside the Premier League increasing.

In Yakubu’s view, the Egyptian star still possesses exceptional quality, but the Premier League’s unmatched intensity now tests that brilliance more than ever.