Ex-PL boss says Klopp's exit made Salah stay at Liverpool despite Saudi interest.
Former Premier League manager Slaven Bilic suggests that Mohamed Salah was prepared to leave Liverpool for Saudi Arabia before Jurgen Klopp’s departure from Anfield.
WHAT HAPPENED?
The Egyptian star was strongly connected to a potential move to the Middle East during the summer of 2023, with reports of lucrative offers being made. The speculation continued into 2024 as Salah neared the final year of his Liverpool contract.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
However, it was Klopp who departed, as the German manager said goodbye to Merseyside at the end of the 2023-24 season. Meanwhile, Salah continues to be a key figure for Liverpool, having scored 30 goals once again this season.
WHAT SLAVEN BILIC SAID
Things might have turned out differently if Salah had pushed for a move to the Saudi Pro League. Former West Ham manager Slaven Bilic, who previously worked with Al Fateh in the region, told The LineUp via BetMGM and talkSPORT:
“There has definitely been a shift this season under Arne Slot. Having been in Saudi Arabia last year, I know he wasn’t happy under Jurgen Klopp, and we expected him to leave.
“The entire Saudi league was prepared for him, and he would have been its biggest star. As far as we knew, the deal was done, and Mo Salah was set to join Al-Ittihad. However, I wasn’t surprised he stayed. He knows the opportunity will still be there when he decides to leave Liverpool—it’s not a one-year, ‘take it or leave it’ offer in Saudi Arabia.”
WHAT NEXT FOR MOHAMED SALAH?
Mohamed Salah’s future remains uncertain as he approaches the final year of his Liverpool contract. While he continues to be a key player under new manager Arne Slot, speculation about a potential move to the Saudi Pro League persists.
Given the massive financial offers from Saudi clubs and the league’s continued interest, Salah could still make the switch if he chooses to leave Anfield. However, if he stays, he will likely remain central to Liverpool’s attacking plans as they transition under Slot’s leadership.
The decision ultimately rests with Salah—whether to continue his legacy at Liverpool or pursue a new chapter in Saudi Arabia.
