Samuel Eto’o has reiterated his support for Mohamed Salah’s Ballon d’Or bid, insisting the Egyptian remains a strong contender despite Liverpool’s Champions League elimination. Speaking on Canal+ Sport Afrique’s Droit dans les Yeux, the Cameroonian football legend defended Salah’s credentials, dismissing claims that his chances have been diminished.
Following Liverpool’s exit from the Champions League at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain, many have ruled Salah out of the race for the prestigious award.
However, Eto’o, the current president of the Cameroon Football Federation (Fecafoot), believes the Egyptian forward is still among the top candidates.
Eto’o Challenges Ballon d’Or Selection Criteria
During his interview with Claude Leroy, Eto’o challenged the notion that Salah’s failure to lead Liverpool to European glory should disqualify him from contention.
He argued that consistency throughout the season should carry more weight than tournament success.
“I don’t think Mohamed Salah has lost all his chances of winning the Ballon d’Or this year,” Eto’o stated. “If some players have won the Ballon d’Or just because they lifted the World Cup, then why should Salah, who has been one of the best all season, not win it?”
The former Barcelona and Inter Milan striker further criticized the tendency to favor short-term performances over sustained excellence.
“If you play only seven matches in a World Cup and someone else plays 60 matches across the season and dominates in those games, why should the award go to the player who had a good month rather than the one who excelled all year?” Eto’o questioned.
Salah’s Case for the Ballon d’Or
Salah has been instrumental for Liverpool this season, delivering crucial goals and assists despite their struggles in Europe.
While his Champions League journey ended prematurely, his performances in the Premier League and other competitions could still bolster his chances.
With the Ballon d’Or race still open, Eto’o’s endorsement highlights the ongoing debate over what truly defines the world’s best player—tournament heroics or season-long brilliance.
