Salah’s AFCON journey includes a surprising stop in Saudi Arabia
Liverpool’s January story continues to unfold quietly, even as the spotlight shifts from the pitch to off-field developments.
Mo Salah has already left Merseyside to join Egypt ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations, but the route he’s taking has sparked renewed speculation. According to Saudi broadcaster Al-Riyadiya, Salah will stop in Jeddah before linking up with his teammates in Morocco. “The main reason is to perform the pilgrimage of Umrah, and he may also connect with the Saudi Ministry of Tourism,” Al-Riyadiya reported via The Mirror.
The timing of this journey is notable, coming just days after a tense week that seemed to test the player, club, and head coach to their limits. Under Arne Slot, Salah responded on the pitch against Brighton with an assist, tireless running, and a reminder of his crucial role in Liverpool’s setup. That performance felt like a reset, though whispers of Saudi Arabia will likely resurface throughout January amid ongoing questions about the 33-year-old’s future.
Stopping in Saudi Arabia on the way to AFCON will inevitably fuel speculation, even with the religious significance of the trip. Former Egyptian striker Mido has already weighed in, saying, “I think it’s time for him to leave,” and adding that once a player “loses this confidence with the manager… it’s hard to be fixed.” Mido also described Salah as “a legend in the whole Middle East” and argued that “the best place for him to go is the Saudi League.”
On the field, Salah’s impact remains undeniable. His corner for Hugo Ekitike against Brighton set a new Premier League record for a single club, highlighting the standard Liverpool would need to replace. Jamie Carragher urged Salah to “put your differences with the manager aside” and finish the season, warning that watching Liverpool chase honours from afar could lead to regret.
At this point, the discussion is less about if the end is coming and more about how Liverpool will handle it. When Salah eventually departs, the club must ensure it happens on their terms—honouring his contributions with dignity, appreciation, and a farewell befitting everything he has given a
t Anfield.