Anfield Shock: Mohamed Salah Under Fire After Dismal Display in United Defeat
The tension at Anfield reached breaking point on Sunday as Liverpool’s 2–1 loss to Manchester United sent shockwaves through the fanbase. Yet beyond the result itself, it was Mohamed Salah’s unusually poor performance that dominated post-match discussion and sparked fierce debate among pundits and supporters alike.
Redknapp Slams Salah: “He’s Playing for Himself”
Former Liverpool midfielder Jamie Redknapp delivered a scathing assessment on Sky Sports, accusing Salah of prioritising ego over teamwork.
“His ego is getting the better of him, and it’s destroying Liverpool’s rhythm,” Redknapp said. “There was no connection between him and his teammates — it was like he was playing on a different wavelength. No urgency, no chemistry, no fight.”
Redknapp went on to claim that Salah’s selfish play and lack of awareness severely hindered Liverpool’s attack.
“He should’ve been subbed off in the first half, no question. That performance was nowhere near the standard of a Liverpool leader. The club can’t keep pretending he’s untouchable — right now, he’s a liability, not an inspiration.”
A Night to Forget for the Egyptian King
Usually Liverpool’s talisman, Salah looked completely out of rhythm against United. He misplaced simple passes, failed to track back, and seemed disconnected from strike partners Alexander Isak and Luis Díaz.
For a player known for his clinical edge and tireless work rate, this was a performance that left both fans and analysts stunned.
Salah’s key stats vs Manchester United:
- 0 shots on target
- 3 misplaced final-third passes
- 2 big chances wasted
- 15 times possession lost
Manager Arne Slot was visibly frustrated on the touchline, at one point throwing his arms up after another Salah turnover sparked a United counterattack.
“Liverpool’s Attack Looked Broken” – Redknapp
Redknapp, typically one of Salah’s defenders, said his criticism came from disappointment, not dislike.
“There’s a fine line between confidence and arrogance. Salah used to lift this team — now he slows it down. Every touch is about him. That’s not leadership, that’s selfishness.”
He added:
“Liverpool’s attack was broken tonight. Salah was supposed to be the difference-maker, but he ended up being the problem. Slot has to remind him — no one is bigger than the badge.”
Fan Backlash: “He’s Not the Same Salah”
The reaction from fans was swift and fierce. Social media was flooded with frustration, with many echoing Redknapp’s views.
“This isn’t the same Salah we fell in love with,” one supporter wrote. “He’s selfish, predictable, and completely out of sync with the team.”
Another fan added:
“Every attack died when it reached him. No passing, no movement, no effort when he loses the ball. That’s not what a leader does.”
While some fans defended Salah’s legacy, most admitted his current form is concerning.
“No one doubts his talent,” one fan said. “But he looks mentally drained. Maybe he needs a break to reset.”
Pundits Divided: Confidence or Ego?
On Match of the Day, Gary Lineker called Salah’s display “unrecognisable.”
“He looked like he was trying to prove something rather than just playing his natural game. It felt like he was fighting himself.”
Rio Ferdinand offered a similar take, suggesting frustration had clouded Salah’s judgment.
“When players start forcing things, it’s usually because they’re frustrated or struggling to adapt. Maybe Slot’s system doesn’t suit him — but tonight, it looked like ego took over.”
Slot’s Response: “We Win Together, We Lose Together”
Manager Arne Slot avoided singling anyone out post-match, but his expression told its own story.
“I won’t speak about individuals. We win together, we lose together,” he said. “Of course, the attack needs improvement, but those discussions will stay in the dressing room.”
However, insiders suggest Slot is growing increasingly concerned about Salah’s decision-making and focus. According to club sources, the Dutchman may consider resting the Egyptian to allow him to “reset mentally and physically.”
Liverpool’s Title Ambitions Under Threat
The defeat not only wounded pride but also dealt a major blow to Liverpool’s Premier League title hopes. With Arsenal and Manchester City maintaining pressure at the top, any further slip-ups could prove fatal.
Analysts argue that Salah’s struggles are becoming a tactical issue. Slot’s system relies on fluid, collective movement — something that falters when one forward tries to play as an individual.
A Defining Moment for Salah
For the first time in years, even the most loyal fans are questioning whether Salah should remain an automatic starter. The mantra “no one is bigger than the club” has been echoing through phone-ins and fan forums since the final whistle.
Salah’s future may depend on how he responds in the coming weeks. If he fails to rediscover his spark and reconnect with the team ethos, Slot may be forced to reshape his front line.
Conclusion: Reputation on the Line
Mohamed Salah has been Liverpool’s heartbeat for nearly a decade, but this latest performance — and Jamie Redknapp’s explosive reaction — has made one thing clear: patience is wearing thin.
Whether this slump stems from fatigue, frustration, or ego, the message from Anfield is unmistakable — Salah must rediscover his humility, teamwork, and hunger, or risk tarnishing the legacy he has built.
Redknapp’s closing remark summed up the sentiment perfectly:
“Great players adapt and evolve. Salah has to decide whether he still wants to be great — or just remembered.”
