Mohamed Salah is the "King of Egypt," not only one of the most important names ever to pass through Liverpool, but the leading face of the recent Golden Generation at Anfield. And with his contract gradually running out now, he's made things crystal clear: it could well be his last on Merseyside. He wants to close that chapter in style with one more title in the Premier League.
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Salah confirms the one thing everyone was too scared to even think about
Speculation about Salah's future has dominated the headlines for months. In a recent interview with Sky Sports, the 32-year-old forward said: "It's my last year at the club, so I want to do something special". With these words, Salah all but confirmed that renewal talks are not currently on the table.
Liverpool reportedly tried to extend his contract, but negotiations didn't advance. For the first time, Salah made public indications that he doesn't want to extend further. "So far, yes. These are the last six months. There has been no progress, we are far from any breakthrough. So, we need to wait and see", the player said.
What drives Salah in his last season?
For him, Salah, it's about making the most of his last months at Liverpool on both individual and collective levels. He has managed 20 goals in 26 games this season, with 17 assists. But beyond the stats, what Salah really pursues is legacy.
If these are the last six months, what do I want to look back and say? That I was stressed about the contract or that I had an incredible season? That's what's on my mind," he explained.
There's one, though, that seems extra meaningful to the forward: one more Premier League. The title from 2019/20 - which ended Liverpool's 30-year wait - was celebrated under Covid-19 limitations. "It's the first time I said I really want to win it with Liverpool. Probably because we didn't celebrate the other one as we wished", Salah looked back.
Leader of a historical generation
Since he joined Liverpool in 2017, Salah has been the defining figure of a generation that changed the face of the club. He and his teammates, under the tutelage of Klopp, won unreachable titles like the Premier League, Champions League, Club World Cup, UEFA Super Cup, and domestic ones like the FA Cup and Carabao Cup.
Salah knows this group is reaching the end of a journey that, for many, started together. Half of Klopp's original squad has moved on. The others - Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk, Alisson, Andy Robertson - know full well these could be the last months of this era.
"My motivation is to win a trophy and be a key part of the achievement, especially the Premier League. I still believe the team needs another trophy. I hope we can win two, that would be great", Salah said, showing that this group still has plenty of ambition left.
The impact of Salah's departure
Were Salah to leave Liverpool, the club would be deprived of much more than just a very talented footballer. It would mean the end of a cycle that brought Liverpool back to the top of European soccer.
Still, Liverpool as a club has always found ways to rebuild. Just as they moved forward after the departures of past icons like Steven Gerrard and Luis Suárez, the team will have to rebuild again. The lingering question is: who will be the next Salah?
Doubtful but bright future
As Salah readies his final act at Liverpool, the future for the forward has grown in great uncertainty. With the freedom to negotiate with clubs starting in January, the speculation has already gotten in full swing: will he sign for another European powerhouse or look into emerging markets such as Saudi Arabia and the MLS?
Whatever happens next, Salah's legacy at Liverpool is already secure. His goals, his assists, and his moments will live on in the history of the club.