Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah Hints at Following Cristiano Ronaldo’s Path

Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah Hints at Following Cristiano Ronaldo’s Path

  • Mohamed Salah confirmed he was in talks with Saudi Pro League club Al Ittihad before renewing his contract with Liverpool
  • Inspired by Cristiano Ronaldo, Salah believes he can continue playing at a high level into his late 30s or even to age 40
  • Salah opens up about Liverpool contract extension, title in five seasons, also clinching the EPL Golden Boot with 29 goals

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Mohamed Salah has opened up about his football future in a recent interview after guiding Liverpool to a second Premier League honour and signing a contract extension.

The two-time African Footballer of the Year admitted that a move to the Saudi Pro League was seriously considered before he extended his Anfield stay.

The winger also revealed he sees no reason he can’t play into his 40s, much like Cristiano Ronaldo.

Mohamed Salah, Cristiano Ronaldo, Liverpool, Al-Nassr
Mohamed Salah (left), Cristiano Ronaldo (right). Image credit: Abdullah Ahmed, Carl Recine
Source: Getty Images

Salah opens up about Liverpool contract extension

Salah's new Liverpool contract came after months of speculation regarding his future, with one of the strongest rumours being a big-money move to Saudi Arabia.

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Clubs like Al Ittihad were reportedly ready to offer a lucrative deal, but the Egyptian ended up staying in the Premier League.

Speaking to ON Sports, as quoted by Mirror Football, Salah confirmed that talks with Saudi clubs did take place.

“I thought it was a good opportunity. My contract was up at Liverpool, and I would have gone to Saudi, but we finalised the deal with Liverpool. I always stay in contact with them (Saudi clubs).” Mohamed Salah stated.

The appeal of the Saudi Pro League

The rise of the Saudi Pro League has attracted several top players in recent years, such as Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr and Al-Ittihad's Karim Benzema, who recently aimed a subtle dig at Ronaldo.

Cristiano Ronaldo, Al-Nassr, Saudi Pro League
Cristiano Ronaldo of Al Nassr applauds the fans during the warm up prior to the Saudi Pro League match between Al Nassr and Al Ittihad at Al-Awwal Park on May 07, 2025. Image credit: Yasser Bakhsh
Source: Getty Images

At 32, Salah was considered a prime target to help further boost the league's profile. Yet, Liverpool stood firm and were unwilling to part with their 245-goal forward, per Wikipedia.

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Salah's decision to stay highlights his deep connection to Liverpool, with his place as a club legend not cemented.

“I am happy here in Liverpool and I am staying here for the next two years. Then I will see what I will do next.” Salah said.

Salah's bid to play till 40 like Cristiano Ronaldo

When asked about his motivation to maintain his high standards, Salah pointed to the fact that he can play till the age of 40 like ex-Real Madrid icon, Cristiano Ronaldo.

“I will stop playing when I have that feeling. But if you ask me for my opinion, I think I can play until the age of 39 or 40.” he added.

Liverpool trophy parade rocked by car accident

YEN.com.gh earlier reported the devastating incident where a car drove into a crowd at Liverpool's Premier League trophy parade on Monday, May 26, causing multiple injuries.

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Lots of football figures, including ex-Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, have spoken against the disaster while offering words of comfort to the injured fans.

Source: YEN.com.gh

Authors:
Gariba Raubil avatar

Gariba Raubil (Sports Editor) Gariba Raubil is a skilled content writer and journalist with over 14 years of experience in sports journalism. He is a CAF and FIFA-accredited reporter and has been a member of the International Sports Press Association (AIPS) since 2020. He has covered several international tournaments including two All Africa Games in 2015 and 2023. He also reported on the 2017 CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon and the 2018 Women’s AFCON. Email: gariba.raubil@yen.com.gh

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