Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has sharply criticized Liverpool’s star attacker, Mohamed Salah.
Rooney found Salah’s recent comments on the Reds’ playing style under coach Arne Slot to be «sad that his time at Liverpool is ending like this after all he has done for the club. He has no right to direct another jab at Arne Slot,» Rooney stated clearly on the Wayne Rooney Show.
Salah recently caused a stir by indirectly criticizing Slot’s approach and hinting at a longing for the era of his predecessor, Jürgen Klopp. «I wish Liverpool becomes the brave offensive team again that opponents fear, and a team that wins titles again,» said the 33-year-old, who will leave Liverpool in the summer after nine years.
«If I were Arne Slot, I wouldn’t even let him near the stadium for the last game,» Rooney emphasized, referring to the season finale against Brentford at home on Sunday. The former England international questioned whether Salah could even deliver the «heavy metal football» he apparently desires: «I don’t think Salah is capable of that kind of football anymore. He doesn’t have the legs for it anymore to play at that pace and intensity,» Rooney concluded.
Mohamed Salah Departs Liverpool at the End of the Season
In spring 2025, Salah had originally extended his contract at Anfield for another two years until 2027. However, after an initial disagreement with coach Slot in December, it became increasingly apparent that the Egyptian would leave the Reds this summer. At the end of March, Salah announced that he would be leaving Liverpool after the season.
Salah has not been able to replicate his usual numbers this season. So far, he has recorded twelve goals and nine assists in 40 appearances across all competitions. In his final game for his long-time club on Sunday against Brentford, Salah and his teammates are still fighting to defend fifth place, and thus qualification for the Champions League.
Salah’s future after his departure from Liverpool remains uncertain. According to rumors, a move to Saudi Arabia appears particularly likely. In addition to clarifying his future, the Egyptian national player also has the World Cup to look forward to in the summer. He will face Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand in the group stage with the North Africans.