Egyptian legend Ahmed Hassan condemns Liverpool’s ‘lack of respect’ toward Mohamed Salah

Liverpool’s turbulent week intensified after Mohamed Salah voiced frustration over his treatment at the club, prompting Egyptian forward Ahmed Hassan to defend the national icon and accuse the Reds of disrespect.

Salah spoke openly after Liverpool’s 3-3 draw with Leeds United, expressing disbelief at being left on the bench for the entire match.

The Egyptian star said he felt “sacrificed” and described his relationship with manager Arne Slot as “completely broken.”

He emphasised that such a situation was unusual for him, adding, “I couldn’t believe I was on the bench for 90 minutes. It’s the third time. I think it’s the first time in my career.”

His remarks sparked widespread debate, and reaction quickly reached Cairo. Ahmed Hassan, who plays for Al-Ettifaq, delivered firm support for his compatriot in a message to his 1.6 million followers on X.

He addressed the emotions players face when they are not called up for national duty, before stressing that Salah’s circumstances stand apart from those of other players.

Hassan said Salah belongs to a “different category,” grouping him alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

He argued that footballers of this stature do not stay on the bench and criticised Liverpool’s decision not to play him, calling it “a total lack of respect for everything he has done for the club.”

He highlighted Salah’s influence within Egyptian football as well, describing him as “a brother, a leader, and a legend for his club and his country.”

Hassan urged him to stay composed, noting that difficult moments eventually pass, while greatness and resilience endure.

Salah’s comments and Hassan’s forceful response have added new tension at Liverpool, as questions continue to grow around the forward’s future under Slot.