Faith Nyasuguta
Mohamed Salah has announced he will leave Liverpool FC at the end of the season, bringing to a close one of the most successful and transformative spells in the club’s modern history. The 33-year-old Egyptian forward confirmed his decision in a video message, saying: “Unfortunately the day has come. This is the first part of my farewell… I will be leaving Liverpool at the end of the season.”
Salah’s departure comes despite signing a new two-year contract in April 2025, with the club stating that both parties had “reached an agreement” over his future. He is now set to leave on a free transfer, though his next destination remains unclear.
The forward’s final season at Anfield has been challenging by his own high standards. With 10 goals in 34 appearances across all competitions, he is on track to record his lowest-scoring campaign since joining the club in 2017 from AS Roma. Off the pitch, tensions also surfaced earlier in the season, with Salah claiming he was “thrown under the bus” following a draw against Leeds and suggesting a strained relationship with head coach Arne Slot.
Despite speculation over a January exit, Salah remained with the squad after his involvement in the Africa Cup of Nations, continuing to contribute as Liverpool compete on multiple fronts. The club said the early announcement was made out of respect for supporters and to provide clarity about his future.
Reflecting on his time at Liverpool, Salah spoke emotionally about the bond he has built with the club and its fans. “I never imagined how deeply this club, this city, these people would become part of my life. Liverpool is not just a football club. It’s a passion. It’s history. It’s a spirit,” he said. He also acknowledged the highs and lows experienced during his stay, including major trophy wins, the Covid-19 pandemic, and personal losses within the team.
Salah’s impact on the pitch has been historic. Over nine seasons, he has scored 255 goals in 435 appearances, making him the third-highest scorer in Liverpool’s history behind Ian Rush and Roger Hunt. His contributions have been central to a period of sustained success, including two Premier League titles, a UEFA Champions League triumph, and multiple domestic and international trophies.
Individually, Salah has collected numerous accolades, including four Premier League Golden Boots and three Professional Footballers’ Association Player of the Year awards. His consistency and influence have cemented his place among the club’s all-time greats.
Tributes have already begun to pour in. Team-mate Andy Robertson described Salah as “the greatest” in Liverpool’s history, adding that it has been “a joy to watch and be part of” his journey. Former defender Stephen Warnock noted that Salah’s announcement could shape the remainder of the season, drawing parallels to Jurgen Klopp’s departure announcement in 2024.
Off the pitch, analysts suggest Liverpool weighed the financial implications of letting Salah leave for free against the savings from his reported £400,000-a-week wages. Fan reactions have been mixed, with many expressing both sadness and understanding given his recent dip in form.
For Salah, however, the focus remains on finishing strong. “Leaving is never easy… You gave me the best time of my life. I will always be one of you,” he said, echoing the club’s iconic anthem: “Because of all of you I will never walk alone.”
With key fixtures still ahead, including domestic and European competitions, Liverpool are expected to honour Salah’s legacy later in the year as he prepares to bid farewell to Anfield.
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