Egyptian football star Mohamed Salah may soon be facing his home country’s powerhouse club, Al-Ahly, at the 2025 Club World Cup.
The possibility comes amid reports that Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal is pursuing Salah as they gear up for the newly expanded tournament, set to feature 32 teams in the United States next summer.
Speculation Over Salah’s Future at Liverpool
Recently, rumors about Salah’s future at Liverpool have been fueled by a cryptic tweet many interpreted as a farewell message to fans.
With his contract at Anfield set to expire in the summer of 2025, speculation is growing that Liverpool’s prolific forward may be ready to explore new opportunities.
The 31-year-old, known as the “Egyptian Pharaoh,” has been pivotal in Liverpool’s success and remains one of the most coveted players in global football.
English outlet talkSPORT reported that Al-Hilal is eyeing Salah ahead of the Club World Cup, where he could represent the Saudi Pro League’s flagship team.
Ben Jacobs, talkSPORT’s Saudi football correspondent, revealed that Al-Hilal has been actively pursuing Salah in preparation for the tournament.
“Al-Hilal may attempt to sign Salah between June 1 and June 10 next year,” Jacobs said, emphasizing that Al-Hilal’s ambition to sign Salah goes beyond the Saudi league, eyeing a potential Club World Cup impact.
The Allure of a Club World Cup Showdown
One of the compelling narratives that could emerge is a potential matchup between Salah and his former team Al-Ahly, who will also be competing in the 2025 Club World Cup.
This prospect alone has ignited excitement in Egypt, where Salah enjoys iconic status, and the possibility of him playing against an Egyptian team would undoubtedly attract substantial attention.
Jacobs noted, “All indications suggest Saudi clubs are prepared to re-engage in negotiations with Salah, and if he’s available, a generous signing package is expected.”
According to Jacobs, media rights considerations also play a role, as Salah’s potential move could lead to changes in broadcast arrangements, particularly in Egypt, where the popularity of both Salah and Al-Ahly is unmatched.
Al-Hilal’s Strategic Vision
Al-Hilal is positioning itself to make a landmark acquisition in Salah, who would join several top players drawn to the Saudi Pro League in recent years.
The Saudi Football Federation is expected to grant Al-Hilal significant privileges for the 2025 season, given the club’s participation in the Club World Cup.
The tournament’s new format provides an unprecedented opportunity for Saudi clubs to showcase their talent on a global stage, making Salah an ideal marquee signing.
Jacobs added, “The prospect of Salah joining Al-Hilal remains open, with the Club World Cup as a key motivation.”
The tournament would not only elevate Al-Hilal’s profile internationally but also reinforce Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in the global football arena.
As anticipation builds, Salah’s potential transfer to Al-Hilal continues to make headlines, and fans around the world are eager to see if the Egyptian star will take on Al-Ahly in what could be one of the most memorable Club World Cup matchups to date.
World Cup 2026: Ivory Coast vs Ecuador Preview, form guide, and kick-off time Jun 13, 2026
