Even in defeat, Atletico Madrid’s Marcos Llorente could not help but praise Mohamed Salah, hailing the Liverpool forward as the decisive force behind the Reds’ Champions League victory.
“Liverpool may have taken the victory, but let’s be honest—the real credit goes to him,” Llorente admitted after the match. “He was the heartbeat, the engine, the reason they pressed harder and never gave up. I’ve faced him a few times before, and every single time he was a nightmare to deal with. He doesn’t just play the game—he changes it. Liverpool didn’t win today, HE won it for them. He’s earned all my respect, and the Champions League better start paying attention.”
Salah’s display underlined once again why he is regarded as one of Liverpool’s all-time greats. Combining tireless energy, ruthless finishing, and vocal leadership, the Egyptian lifted his team when it mattered most, leaving even hardened opponents like Llorente in awe.
Supporters were quick to echo the Spaniard’s sentiments online, celebrating Salah’s consistency on Europe’s biggest stage. Many argued that without him, Liverpool might have struggled to break down Diego Simeone’s stubborn side.
For manager Arne Slot, Salah’s brilliance is both reassurance and inspiration as Liverpool continue their European push. And for t
