Mohamed Salah once again found himself at the center of attention after Liverpool’s composed 2–0 victory over Brighton on Saturday, a match that unfolded against a backdrop of uncertainty surrounding the Egyptian star’s future at Anfield. In a week dominated by speculation, tension, and unanswered questions, Salah delivered his response in the way he knows best — on the pitch.
Introduced from the bench in the first half, Salah made an immediate impact, providing the decisive assist for Hugo Ekitike’s second goal against the Seagulls. It was a reminder of his enduring quality and influence, even as debate continues to swirl about his role under new manager Arne Slot.
The build-up to the match had been anything but calm. Just days earlier, Salah had sparked a media storm following comments made at Elland Road, where he admitted he felt he had been “thrown under the bus” by the club. He also revealed that his relationship with Slot had fractured after an unprecedented run of games spent outside the starting XI — a situation few would have imagined for a player who has defined Liverpool’s modern era.
Despite signing a new two-year contract only in April, the 33-year-old found himself excluded from the midweek squad to face Inter Milan, further fueling rumors of an internal rift. Talks between Salah and Slot reportedly followed, leading to his reinstatement for the Brighton clash, but the episode left lingering questions about his long-term future.
Adding emotional weight to the occasion, Salah admitted before kick-off that the Brighton match could potentially be his final appearance at Anfield for some time. He is set to join up with Egypt for a month-long Africa Cup of Nations campaign, after which his career path remains uncertain. While discussions between the club and player are expected to continue during his absence, nothing has been resolved.
That sense of ambiguity was only heightened after the final whistle. Salah completed a slow lap of honour around Anfield, applauding supporters as they sang his iconic “Egyptian King” chant. To some, it felt like a heartfelt thank-you. To others, it carried the unmistakable tone of a farewell. Interpretation was left deliberately open.
Should this ultimately mark his final chapter at Liverpool, Salah would leave behind more than just trophies and records. He would be saying goodbye to a city that has been home for more than eight years, along with his wife Magi and their two young daughters. The family’s deep roots in the area have long been cited as a key reason behind Salah’s decision to extend his contract earlier this year.
Speaking at the time, Salah openly admitted that his family’s happiness played a decisive role. “They feel at home,” he said. “Magi and the kids were very happy that we’re staying another two years. It feels like home. Everyone was happy — especially Makka.” He revealed that his eldest daughter was particularly keen to stay, having settled into school life and friendships in the city.
The family currently live in a luxurious mansion in Cheshire’s prestigious “golden triangle,” an area favored by elite footballers, including Manchester City star Erling Haaland. The property is not just a family home but also a performance hub designed to keep Salah at peak physical condition. It features two fully equipped gym rooms, cryotherapy facilities, and even a hyperbaric chamber.
“I’m always trying to improve my physical condition,” Salah once explained. “My house looks like a hospital,” he joked — though he admitted his wife doesn’t always share his enthusiasm for the machines, teasing that he spends more time with them than with her.
Fans have previously been given rare glimpses into Salah’s private life through advertisements and social media. In a Vodafone Egypt advert filmed in 2020, he was seen playing in the garden with his daughter Makka, lifting her into the air in a moment that contrasted sharply with his ruthless on-field persona. Other scenes revealed a sleek, modern living space, complete with personal touches such as a framed portrait of Makka in her school uniform.
Each year, Salah and his family also share a festive photo in matching pyjamas by their Christmas tree — a tradition that has endeared him further to supporters. This year, however, the holiday period will be shaped by a different focus: Salah’s determination to finally lift the Africa Cup of Nations trophy with Egypt.
Whether his future lies at Liverpool or elsewhere, the coming weeks promise to be pivotal. For now, Salah leaves Anfield having once again reminded everyone of his value — not just as a footballer, but as a symbol of an era that may soon be drawing to a close.
