The murmurs around Mohamed Salah's future at Liverpool have intensified, with legendary Reds winger John Barnes now asserting that the timing is right for the Egyptian superstar to depart Anfield at the close of the current season.
Anfield Icon's Verdict: Time for Change
Speaking candidly to OLBG, Barnes, a revered figure from Liverpool's golden era, articulated his belief that Salah's exit aligns with the club's evolving trajectory. He even suggested that an earlier departure, specifically at the end of last season, might have been even more advantageous for all parties involved.
"I think it probably is the right time, mainly because of the way the season’s gone and what he’s been able to give," Barnes stated. "I thought it would have been at the end of last year, which for me would have been a better time for both parties."
Barnes' Rationale for Salah's Departure:
- A Challenging Campaign: Barnes highlighted the "difficult" nature of Salah's current season, implying a dip in his usual stratospheric standards.
- The Age Factor: Turning 34 in June, Salah faces the inevitable realities of professional football longevity. "The problem for Salah is the problem for everybody. You get to 34 years old and this happens," Barnes observed.
- Future Planning for Liverpool: The former winger emphasized the necessity for Liverpool to proactively secure younger attacking talents, citing names like Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike, and Florian Wirtz as examples of forward-thinking recruitment.
Salah's Swansong: A Season of Mixed Fortunes
Salah himself confirmed last month his intention to leave Liverpool after a monumental nine-year tenure. While his time at the club has been laden with silverware and individual accolades, his final season has presented a stark contrast to his usual dominance.
The campaign has seen its share of frustrations, including a pivotal penalty miss in the FA Cup quarter-final defeat to Manchester City and widely reported public comments concerning the club and incoming manager Arne Slot. His goal output, too, has seen a notable reduction, registering 10 goals in 35 appearances – a figure uncharacteristic of the prolific forward.
Cementing a Legendary Legacy
Despite the recent struggles and the looming departure, Barnes was unequivocal in placing Mohamed Salah among the pantheon of Liverpool's all-time greats.
"He’s up there with the best of them," Barnes affirmed. "You can talk about Steven Gerrard, Kevin Keegan, Ian Callaghan… I think Mo will be right up there with them. In terms of the top players at Liverpool, 100 per cent he’s up there."
Salah is anticipated to feature prominently when Liverpool next takes to the field, facing Paris Saint-Germain in a high-stakes Champions League quarter-final clash on Wednesday.