Ask Onix
Salah challenges Slot's authority in explosive interview
Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah has intensified pressure on manager Arne Slot after publicly declaring their relationship has "broken down," marking a dramatic escalation in the club's internal turmoil.
Public fallout shatters Anfield's calm
The Egyptian star, a cornerstone of Liverpool's recent success, accused the club of "throwing me under the bus" without naming specific individuals. His remarks, delivered after a 3-3 draw at Leeds United where he watched from the bench, represent an unprecedented public rebellion from a player of his stature.
"It is very clear that someone wanted me to get all of the blame," Salah stated, though he stopped short of demanding Slot's removal. The outburst comes as Liverpool's title defense collapses, with the team sitting eighth in the Premier League after 14 matches.
Bench role sparks controversy
Salah's frustration boiled over following his third consecutive match as a substitute. The 33-year-old has started just 16 games this season, scoring five goals - a stark contrast to his 34-goal campaign last year that helped deliver the Premier League title.
Slot's decision to bench the forward reflects both tactical adjustments and long-term planning ahead of Salah's Africa Cup of Nations absence starting December 15. However, the manager now faces intensified scrutiny after Salah's public criticism.
Career legacy hangs in balance
With 250 goals across all competitions, Salah ranks third in Liverpool's all-time scoring list behind Ian Rush and Roger Hunt. His decorated career includes two Premier League titles, a Champions League triumph, and multiple domestic cups.
Yet this season has exposed signs of decline. "The legs have not looked as sprightly as they once did," observers note, with Salah's reduced impact raising questions about his future role at Anfield.
Historical tensions resurface
The current dispute echoes Salah's previous clash with Jürgen Klopp in April 2024, when he refused media comment after a touchline argument during a West Ham match. Then, he warned "if I speak, there will be fire." This weekend, he chose to speak - igniting what may prove an uncontrollable blaze.
Club faces defining moment
Liverpool's next match against Brighton will unfold under extraordinary scrutiny, particularly if Slot and Salah interact on the sidelines. While fans remain loyal to their icon, the club appears unlikely to sacrifice a manager over player criticism - regardless of the player's legendary status.
With summer spending approaching £450 million, the champions face uncomfortable questions about squad harmony and leadership. Salah's future at Anfield may now hinge on whether either party can find a path to reconciliation - or if this public rupture proves irreparable.
