Liverpool can help Arne Slot by selling petulant Mohamed Salah this summer
When reflecting on the conclusion of an era at Liverpool, few images encapsulate it as profoundly as Jürgen Klopp's altercation with Mohamed Salah on the touchline of the London Stadium. It serves as a stark reminder of what occurs when power begins to erode. Regrettably, this is often how such chapters come to a close.
The exact cause of the row that captured attention following Liverpool's disappointing 2-2 draw with West Ham on Saturday remains speculative. West Ham's equalizer came just before Klopp, who had been preparing to make a triple substitution, could bring on Salah, Darwin Núñez, and Joe Gomez. The manager seemed visibly frustrated and appeared to reprimand Salah, whose angry reaction left no doubt that he had no intention of entertaining any criticism.
The scene was indeed remarkable. It was evident that Salah did not view Klopp as a figure of authority. Instead of restraining himself, the Egyptian had to be physically restrained by two of his teammates. Later, as he exited the stadium and passed reporters, he declined interview requests, stating that there would be consequences if he were to stop and speak.
No need to say more, Mo's actions spoke volumes. While Klopp attempted to downplay the incident during his post-match press conference, Salah's reaction ignited the situation. Despite delivering his remark in a lighthearted manner, Salah hardly exhibited diplomatic behavior. What Liverpool truly needed was for Salah to ignite the same kind of spark on the pitch, especially during a period where their season seemed to be unraveling.
Things weren't meant to unfold this way when Klopp announced his departure. Liverpool had clinched the Carabao Cup final and set their sights on a quadruple. However, a shift occurred following their FA Cup exit to Manchester United last month. The team faced immense physical and mental challenges. Defensive vulnerabilities were exposed in the Europa League quarter-final defeat to Atalanta, while the attack faltered in several matches they should have won, leading to a faltering title challenge.
Salah, who has struggled to regain sharpness since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations, couldn't provide the necessary inspiration. Despite tallying 24 goals in all competitions this season—a respectable figure—there's a sense that his powers may be diminishing. At 32 years old, with his contract set to expire in a year, rumors abound of a potential move to Saudi Arabia this summer. Perhaps Klopp's impending departure triggered Salah's outburst. Alternatively, it's plausible that Salah's potential departure prompted his eruption.
Regardless of the circumstances, it would be a shame if the relationship between two of Liverpool's greatest figures were to fracture. Salah has undeniably been the standout player of Klopp's reign—the attacking genius and driving force behind numerous memorable victories. However, one can't help but recall Sir Alex Ferguson's announcement in 2001 that it would be his final season at United. Uncertainty crept in, motivation waned, and United relinquished the title to Arsenal. Ferguson inadvertently provided his players with an excuse to lower their standards.
Fortunately for United, Ferguson ultimately stayed and ushered in a new era of dominance. However, Klopp is not wavering from his decision to depart. He appears emotionally drained and sounds eager for the season to conclude. Undoubtedly, this has an impact on the team. The mentality monsters seem to have vanished.
While Salah has displayed moments of frustration in the past, none compare to the magnitude of Saturday's incident. And one would assume such behavior wouldn't have occurred if Klopp were staying. Individuals who fear repercussions from their manager typically don't act in such a manner.
However, this is a team lacking focus, led by a fatigued, preoccupied, discontented manager. If they were at their best, Liverpool would have comfortably dispatched West Ham after taking a 2-1 lead. Instead, their title aspirations fizzled out amidst a flurry of missed opportunities and defensive lapses.
Certainly, Salah is a contributing factor to the current state of affairs. His goal-scoring prowess will undoubtedly be challenging to replace. However, it's conceivable that Arne Slot, who is poised to be confirmed as Klopp's successor, may find it advantageous not to have to contend with managing a player whose ego seems to have become unmanageable next season.
The rebuilding process certainly won't be straightforward. Aside from Salah, uncertainties also loom over the futures of Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold. However, Liverpool can glean another valuable lesson from Ferguson—how to handle a disrespectful player. With the exception of a few individuals, Ferguson always recognized when someone's time at the club was up. He never allowed anyone to overshadow the club itself. However, Klopp finds himself unable to rein in Salah.
The sense of fear has dissipated, particularly during this disheartening end to the season. Klopp no longer possesses the resolve to address it, and his star player has sensed his vulnerability. Looking ahead, Liverpool must support Slot by reinstating discipline. Klopp may depart, but so too must Salah.
