When Mohamed Salah publicly voiced his frustration at Liverpool earlier this season, it felt like the beginning of the end. Benched, unhappy, and unusually outspoken, the Egyptian icon appeared to be drifting towards an uncomfortable exit from Anfield.
Fast forward a few weeks, and the narrative has changed completely.
According to former Liverpool striker Michael Owen, Salah and Liverpool have effectively “kissed and made up” — and the Reds may have pulled off what he describes as a stroke of genius in how they managed the situation.
Salah’s outburst in early December raised eyebrows across the football world. It’s rare to see a player of his stature openly question decisions and hint at a breakdown in trust with a manager. Under Arne Slot, the relationship looked strained, and speculation about an early exit intensified.
However, Liverpool’s response was measured rather than reactionary. Salah was dropped briefly, reintroduced calmly, and then departed for AFCON without further drama. That sequence, according to Owen, defused what could have become a full-blown circus.
Instead of boos, protests, or constant headlines, Salah’s eventual return is expected to be quiet, focused, and football-driven.
Injuries and squad changes have reshaped Liverpool’s attack. With key forwards sidelined and others gone, the once “embarrassment of riches” up front has thinned out rapidly.
Owen summed it up perfectly: Liverpool are missing a banker — a player you expect to score in big moments, consistently.
That player is Mohamed Salah.
There is no natural replacement on the right side. No other forward guarantees goals the way he does. As the season tightens and pressure increases, Liverpool’s need for Salah outweighs any lingering tension from earlier disagreements.
Rather than returning as a problem, Salah could come back refreshed, motivated, and dangerous. The noise has settled. The emotions have cooled. The focus is now purely on football.
If Liverpool had wanted to cash in, Owen believes they missed their window. But in hindsight, holding firm may be the smarter play. With the squad stretched and titles still in sight, Salah’s presence could define the second half of the campaign.
Did Salah damage his Liverpool legacy by speaking out? Owen doesn’t think so.
Frustration, passion, and a desire to play are hardly unforgivable traits. In fact, in an era where players down tools or force exits, Salah’s anger stemmed from wanting to contribute and win.
Legends are not built on silence alone. They are built on moments, records, trophies, and commitment. Salah still stands shoulder to shoulder with Liverpool greats — and how this season ends could elevate that status even further.
What once looked like a messy divorce is now shaping up to be a reunion with purpose. If Mohamed Salah delivers in the second half of the season, Liverpool’s calm handling of his saga will be remembered not as hesitation — but as masterclass management.
And for the Reds, that could make all the difference.
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