Mohamed Salah, often known simply as Salah, is a renowned figure in the world of football. In this article, we will delve into the life and career of this extraordinary player.
Who is Mohamed Salah?
Mohamed Salah Hamed Mahrous Ghaly, a name that resonates in the world of sports, was born on June 15, 1992, in Nagrig, Basyoun, Egypt. He stands at 1.75 meters (5 feet 9 inches) and is recognized for his remarkable abilities as a right-winger and forward. Currently, he is a key player for the prestigious Liverpool football team.
Early Life and Background
Salah’s journey to stardom began in the small town of Nagrig, where he was born. Despite humble beginnings, his unwavering passion for football was evident from a young age. The local fields of Nagrig witnessed the birth of a future football legend.
Childhood Idols
Salah’s love for football was inspired by legends such as Ronaldo, Zinedine Zidane, and Francesco Totti. These childhood idols ignited a fire within him that would lead to an extraordinary career.
Club Career
Al Mokawloon: The Beginning
In 2006, at the age of 14, Salah’s journey took a pivotal turn when he joined the youth team of Al Mokawloon. Interestingly, his discovery was an accidental one, as a scout had initially come to watch another player but couldn’t ignore Salah’s talent.
Sacrifices and Dedication
Salah’s path to Al Mokawloon was not without sacrifices. He often had to miss school to undertake the exhausting three-hour journey for training. This level of dedication at such a young age showcased his unwavering commitment to the sport.
The Transition to Senior Teams
A Special Talent
At the age of 15, Salah’s exceptional skills caught the eye of the first-team manager, Mohamed Radwan. He was immediately promoted to the senior squad, a testament to his extraordinary abilities.
Challenges Faced
Salah’s early days in the senior team were not without challenges. He struggled to find the back of the net, which often left him in tears after matches. However, these setbacks only fueled his determination to improve.
First Goal
On December 25, 2010, Salah achieved a significant milestone by scoring his first goal for Al Mokawloon in a 1–1 draw against Al Ahly. It was a moment of triumph and marked the beginning of his journey as a goal-scoring sensation.
The Season That Never Was
The 2011-2012 season took an unexpected turn due to the Port Said Stadium riot on February 1, 2012. As a result, the Egyptian Premier League was suspended, and on March 10, 2012, the Egyptian Football Association made the tough decision to cancel the remainder of the season.
Basel
From Egypt to Switzerland
Salah’s journey to Basel was anything but conventional. After the suspension of the Egyptian Premier League, Basel organized a friendly match with the Egypt U-23 team. It was during this match that Salah caught the attention of the Swiss club’s scouts.
A Remarkable Debut
On March 16, Salah played in a friendly match against the Egypt U-23 team, despite only participating in the second half. His exceptional skills were on display as he scored twice, leading Egypt to a 4–3 victory. Basel was quick to recognize his talent and invited him to stay for a week of training.
A New Beginning
On April 10, 2012, it was officially announced that Salah had signed a four-year contract with Basel, starting from June 15, 2012. However, his initial days in Switzerland were not without challenges. Salah struggled with the language barrier and had big shoes to fill, replacing the fan-favourite Xherdan Shaqiri.
On the Field
Salah made his unofficial debut for Basel on June 23, 2012, in a friendly match against Steaua București, where he scored a goal. His official Basel debut came in a UEFA Champions League preliminary stage match against Molde on August 8, 2012.
Scoring Streak
Salah’s knack for scoring continued as he netted his first league goal in a 2–0 home win against Lausanne just a week later. He also impressed in the Europa League, scoring against Tottenham Hotspur in the quarter-finals, helping Basel advance to the semi-finals.
League Triumph
Despite a late disappointment in the European competitions, Salah and Basel clinched the Swiss Super League season 2012–13 Championship title and finished as runners-up in the Swiss Cup.
The Final Season
In the 2013-14 season, Salah continued to shine. He was part of the Basel team that won the 2013 Uhrencup. Salah’s remarkable journey was marked by not only his skills on the field but also some controversies, including an incident involving a handshake.
European Success
Salah scored key goals in the Champions League, notably against Maccabi Tel Aviv and Chelsea. His performance against Chelsea in particular was memorable, as he scored the winning goal during the group stage.
Domestic Dominance
In the Swiss Super League, Salah’s impact was undeniable. He scored important goals, including a brace against title rivals Young Boys, contributing to Basel’s fifth consecutive league title.
Farewell to Basel
On January 23, 2014, it was announced that Salah would leave Basel, marking the end of a significant chapter in his career. During his time with the club, Salah played 95 games and scored 21 goals across various competitions.
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Chelsea
A Historic Signing
On January 23, 2014, Chelsea made history by announcing the signing of Mohamed Salah from Basel for a reported fee of £11 million. This move made Salah the first Egyptian player to join the London-based club.
Entry into the Premier League
Salah’s Chelsea debut took place on February 8, 2014, in a Premier League match against Newcastle United. He came on as a substitute in a 3–0 victory. His journey with Chelsea had officially begun.
Scoring Debut
Salah’s first goal for Chelsea came in a thrilling London Derby against Arsenal on March 22, 2014. He entered the match as a substitute for Oscar, and Chelsea secured a resounding 6–0 victory.
Continued Impact
On April 5, 2014, Salah made a significant impact in a match against Stoke City. He opened the scoring and later played a crucial role in winning a penalty and assisting the third goal in Chelsea’s 3–0 triumph.
Challenges in the 2014-15 Season
Before the 2014-15 season, Salah’s future at Chelsea faced uncertainty. There were concerns that he might have to return to Egypt for military service due to a registration issue. However, after negotiations involving prominent figures, Salah was spared from this obligation.
Change in Squad Number
Salah changed his squad number from 15 to 17 at the start of the season, taking over the number vacated by Eden Hazard, who switched to number 10.
Limited Playing Time
During the 2014-15 season, Salah had limited opportunities on the field. He made just a few appearances in the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, and cup matches, without managing to score.
Loan Move to Fiorentina
In a transfer deal that involved Juan Cuadrado moving in the opposite direction, Salah joined Fiorentina on an 18-month loan deal on February 2, 2015.
Flourishing in Italy
Salah’s move to Fiorentina revitalized his career. He made his debut in a Serie A victory against Atalanta and chose the number 74 shirt in honour of the Port Said Stadium riot victims.
Scoring Streak
Salah’s first start for Fiorentina came on February 14, 2015, against Sassuolo. He scored his first goal for the club and provided an assist in a 3–1 win.
European Success
Salah shone in the Europa League, scoring crucial goals that helped Fiorentina advance to the round of 16, including a memorable victory against Tottenham.
Standout Performances
Salah’s impressive performances continued, including a winning goal against Inter Milan in Serie A and a brace against Juventus in the Coppa Italia semi-final.
A Controversial Move
Despite an option for Fiorentina to make his loan permanent, Salah declined and instead joined Roma. This decision led to a complaint to FIFA from Fiorentina.
Loan to Roma
On August 6, 2015, Salah embarked on a season-long loan to AS Roma for €5 million, with an option to make the deal permanent for a reported €15 million. He donned the number 11 shirt and was ready to make his mark in Italy’s Serie A.
The Debut Season: 2015-16
Salah’s debut for AS Roma occurred on August 22, 2015, in a 1–1 draw against Hellas Verona, kicking off a promising season.
A Scoring Start
On September 20, Salah notched his first goal of the season against Sassuolo, helping Roma secure a 2–2 draw. He continued to impress with goals in subsequent matches, including a 2–1 loss against Sampdoria and a commanding 5–1 victory against Carpi.
Facing Former Rivals
On October 25, Salah faced his former club, Fiorentina, at the Stadio Artemio Franchi. He scored the opener but was sent off after receiving a second yellow card, adding drama to his return.
Champions League Contributions
Salah’s impact extended to the UEFA Champions League, where he scored the opening goal in a 3–2 victory over Bayer Leverkusen on November 4. His performances were crucial in Roma’s European campaign.
Stellar Performances
On March 4, 2016, Salah faced Fiorentina once more and delivered another double, leading Roma to a 4–1 victory and a place in the top three. He continued to shine, scoring against Bologna, Genoa, and AC Milan, concluding the season with a total of 15 goals in 42 matches.
Recognition and Award
Salah’s exceptional contributions did not go unnoticed. In June, he was honoured with AS Roma’s 2015-16 Player of the Season award.
Roma
The Permanent Transfer: 2016-17
Salah’s successful loan spell paved the way for a permanent transfer to AS Roma. On August 3, 2016, the club officially announced his signing for €15 million.
A Strong Start
Salah began the 2016-17 season with a flourish, scoring his first goal in a 4–0 win over Udinese on August 20.
Hat-Trick Hero
On November 6, Salah achieved a significant milestone in his career by scoring a hat-trick in a 3–0 win over Bologna. It was his first hat-trick at the club level.
Injury Setback
Despite his remarkable form, Salah faced adversity when he suffered a ruptured ankle ligament, forcing him to miss a significant portion of December.
Resilience and Return
Salah’s resilience was evident as he returned from injury, making a comeback as a halftime substitute in a 1–0 defeat against title rivals Juventus on December 17.
Continued Scoring
After enduring a two-month goal drought, Salah ended his dry spell by scoring against Torino on February 19, securing a 4–1 victory.
European Journey
In the UEFA Europa League, Salah played a pivotal role, scoring Roma’s opening goal in a 4–2 defeat to Lyon in the round of sixteen’s first leg. Despite winning the second leg, Roma was knocked out 5–4 on aggregate.
Farewell to Totti
In the final game of the season on May 28, Salah was substituted for club legend Francesco Totti, who was playing his last match for AS Roma, in a 3–2 victory over Genoa.
Serie A Runner-Up
AS Roma concluded the 2016-17 season in second place, just four points behind champions Juventus. Salah’s contributions were instrumental in the club’s successful campaign, scoring a total of 19 goals in all competitions.
Liverpool
Arrival at Anfield
On June 22, 2017, Salah agreed to a transfer to Liverpool. He signed a long-term contract with the Reds for an initial fee of £36.5 million, with the potential to rise to £43 million. This signing set a new club record, surpassing the £35 million spent on Andy Carroll in 2011. Salah was assigned the iconic number 11 shirt, previously worn by Roberto Firmino, who switched to number 9. He officially joined the club on July 1, becoming Liverpool’s first Egyptian player.
Impact from the Start
Salah made an immediate impact with Liverpool, announcing his presence in the Premier League with a goal on his debut against Watford in a thrilling 3–3 draw on August 12. His performance hinted at the extraordinary season that lay ahead.
Champions League Contributions
Salah’s influence extended to the UEFA Champions League. On August 24, he scored his second goal for Liverpool in a 4–2 victory (6–3 on aggregate) against Hoffenheim during the 2017-18 play-off round. This match marked his first goal at Anfield. Just three days later, Salah showcased his prowess by scoring and assisting a goal in a spectacular 4–0 triumph over Arsenal. His performances in August earned him the Player of the Month award from Liverpool supporters.
Champions League Record
On October 17, Salah shone in a 7–0 Champions League victory over Maribor, helping Liverpool achieve the joint-largest-ever away win in the competition. This win also represented the largest away victory by an English club in the Champions League.
Premier League Dominance
Salah’s Premier League journey reached new heights as he ascended to the top of the goalscoring charts. He scored twice as a substitute in a 3–0 win away at Stoke City on November 29. The following month, he continued his scoring streak in a 4–0 victory over AFC Bournemouth. This achievement made Liverpool the first team in Premier League history to win four consecutive away league matches by a margin of at least three goals. He also became the joint-second fastest player to reach 20 goals for Liverpool, accomplishing the feat in his 26th appearance.
Record-Breaking Hat-Trick
On March 17, 2018, Salah delivered a breathtaking performance, scoring four goals in a 5–0 win against Watford. This memorable match marked his first hat-trick for Liverpool. In the process, he set a new record by scoring 36 times in his debut season for Liverpool, surpassing legends like Lionel Messi and Harry Kane. Salah’s incredible goal tally also made him the leading goalscorer in Europe’s top five leagues, overtaking the likes of Messi and Kane. Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard aptly described it as “the start of greatness.”
Champions League Hero
Salah’s impact in the Champions League was undeniable. In the quarter-finals, he scored in both legs against Manchester City, playing a pivotal role in Liverpool’s advancement. On April 22, 2018, Salah received the PFA Players’ Player of the Year award, a testament to his extraordinary season. Two days later, he scored a brace in a 5–2 Champions League semi-final first-leg victory over his former club, Roma. With these goals, he became the first player from Africa and the first Liverpool player to score 10 goals in a single Champions League campaign. Salah’s double also took his season goal tally to 43 across all competitions, surpassing Roger Hunt’s previous record of 42. He became Liverpool’s second-highest goalscorer in a single season, trailing only the legendary Ian Rush.
Golden Boot Triumph
Salah achieved further milestones in the Premier League. He became the all-time leading goalscorer for a 38-game season, registering his 32nd league goal in a 4–0 win against Brighton & Hove Albion. This remarkable feat earned him the Premier League Golden Boot.
A New Commitment
On July 2, 2018, Salah reaffirmed his commitment to Liverpool by signing a new long-term contract with the club. This decision was hailed by manager Jürgen Klopp as a significant statement of intent regarding Liverpool’s status in the football world.
A Strong Start
Salah wasted no time in making his mark in the 2018-19 season. On August 12, he scored Liverpool’s first goal of the season in a commanding 4-0 victory over West Ham United.
Influence in August
In August, Salah’s influence continued to shine. On August 20, in a 2-0 away win against Crystal Palace, he played a pivotal role in both of Liverpool’s goals. He won a penalty for the first goal and provided an assist for Sadio Mané for the second. Just five days later, Salah displayed his scoring prowess by netting the only goal in Liverpool’s 1-0 win over Brighton.
Recognitions and Controversy
Salah’s exceptional performances didn’t go unnoticed. He was named on the shortlist for prestigious awards. On September 3, he was named among the top three for the Best FIFA Men’s Player, finishing in third place. However, his controversial moment came when he received the 2018 FIFA Puskás Award for the goal of the year, his winning strike being the goal at Anfield in his first Merseyside derby. This decision sparked online protests and debates.
Scoring Milestones
Salah’s goalscoring prowess reached new heights in the 2018-19 season. On October 24, he scored twice against Red Star Belgrade in the UEFA Champions League group stage, with his second goal marking his 50th goal for the club. His incredible achievement made him the fastest player in Liverpool’s history to reach this milestone, achieving it in just 65 games.
A Hat-Trick and Record-Breaking Goal
On December 8, Salah achieved a remarkable feat by scoring a hat-trick in a 4-0 away win over Bournemouth, helping Liverpool claim the top spot in the league. Three days later, he scored the winning goal in a 1-0 victory over Napoli in the Champions League group stage, securing Liverpool’s place in the round of sixteen.
Premier League Milestone
On January 19, 2019, Salah reached his 50th Premier League goal with a brace in a thrilling 4-3 win over Crystal Palace. He accomplished this milestone in just 72 appearances, becoming the joint-fourth fastest player to do so in Premier League history.
Breaking Records
In April 2019, Salah continued to make history. He scored his 50th Premier League goal for Liverpool in a 3-1 win over Southampton, breaking Fernando Torres’ record to become the fastest player to reach this milestone for the club, achieving it in his 69th appearance. This remarkable achievement also made him the third fastest player to reach this milestone for a single club in the Premier League era.
Champions League Glory
Salah’s influence extended to the UEFA Champions League. On June 1, he scored Liverpool’s first goal in the 2019 UEFA Champions League Final from a penalty, helping the team secure a 2-0 victory over Tottenham. His goal, which he scored in the opening two minutes of the match, was the second fastest goal ever scored in a Champions League final, second only to Paolo Maldini’s effort in 2005.
FIFA FIFPro World11 Nomination
In September 2019, Salah received further recognition as he was nominated for the FIFA FIFPro World11 award by FIFPro and FIFA, joining the ranks of 55 top players worldwide.
Premier League Champion (2019-20)
On August 9, 2019, Salah scored Liverpool’s second goal in the opening game of the 2019-20 Premier League season, a resounding 4-1 victory over Norwich City. This was a strong indicator of the season that lay ahead.
Super Cup Hero
Salah’s influence extended to the UEFA Super Cup on August 14. He played a decisive role by scoring Liverpool’s fifth penalty in a thrilling 5-4 penalty shoot-out win against Chelsea. This victory came after the match ended 2-2 after extra time.
Ballon d’Or Recognition
In December, Salah received recognition in the form of a fifth-place finish in the voting polls for the prestigious 2019 Ballon d’Or. His contributions to Liverpool’s success were becoming increasingly evident.
Premier League Century
In the same month, Salah marked his 100th Premier League appearance with an incredible performance. He scored a goal and provided an assist in Liverpool’s convincing 3-0 win over Bournemouth.
Golden Ball Award
December also brought further glory for Salah and Liverpool. The club clinched the 2019 FIFA Club World Cup, with Salah receiving the Golden Ball award for Player of the Tournament.
Dominating Manchester United
On January 19, 2020, Salah showcased his skill and determination by scoring his first goal in five encounters against arch-rivals Manchester United. His run, which spanned from outside his box to the opposition’s goal, was a defining moment in Liverpool’s 2-0 Premier League victory at Anfield.
Historic Victory
Liverpool continued its remarkable season by recording a historic win. On January 29, Salah scored Liverpool’s opening goal in a 2-0 victory over West Ham. This victory made Liverpool the first club to beat every team in a Premier League season, marking a milestone in the club’s 127-year history.
Record-Breaking Performance
On March 7, Salah made history by scoring the opening goal in Liverpool’s 2-1 victory over Bournemouth. This win marked Liverpool’s English top-flight record of 22 consecutive home wins. It was also Salah’s 70th Premier League goal in 100 appearances for Liverpool, surpassing the previous best (63 goals by Fernando Torres). Salah’s 20th goal of the season solidified his status as the first Liverpool player to score 20 goals in all competitions for three consecutive seasons.
A Step Closer to Glory
On June 24, 2020, Salah played a crucial role in Liverpool’s 4-0 victory over Crystal Palace. This win inched Liverpool closer to securing the Premier League title. After Liverpool was confirmed as champions, Salah continued to shine by scoring two more goals, both against Brighton. The Premier League trophy was lifted after a 5-3 victory over Chelsea.
100th Goal and More Records (2020-21)
The 2020-21 season was another remarkable chapter in Salah’s career.
On September 12, 2020, Salah made history by scoring a hat-trick in the first league match of the season. His impressive performance, including two penalties, helped Liverpool secure a thrilling 4-3 victory against Leeds United. This achievement made him the first Liverpool player to score in four consecutive league openers from the 2017-18 season to the 2020-21 season, and only the second player in Premier League history to achieve this feat, following Teddy Sheringham from 1992-93 to 1995-96.
100 Goals for Liverpool
On October 17, 2020, Salah reached a significant milestone by scoring his 100th goal for Liverpool in all competitions. He achieved this milestone in just 159 games, becoming the first player to do so since Steven Gerrard in 2008. Salah was also the third fastest in Liverpool’s history to reach 100 goals, behind Roger Hunt (100 goals in 144 games) and Jack Parkinson (153 games). Importantly, Salah accomplished this feat while scoring purely in England’s top flight, setting him apart from players who scored some of their goals in the Football League Second Division.
Consistent Scoring
Salah’s goal-scoring consistency was on full display during the season.
Goal of the Month
On January 31, 2021, Salah scored two goals against West Ham, becoming the fifth Liverpool player to score more than 20 goals in all competitions for four consecutive seasons. His goal in the 68th minute of that game was later voted as Premier League Goal of the Month.
A Season of Records
On April 24, Salah added another record to his impressive resume. He scored in a 1-1 draw with Newcastle United, becoming the first Liverpool player to score 20 goals in three different Premier League campaigns.
Dominating Manchester United (Again)
On May 13, 2021, Salah scored a goal in Liverpool’s 4-2 away victory over Manchester United, marking his team’s first away win at Old Trafford since March 2014. In this match, Salah became the only player to score at Old Trafford for Liverpool in two different games in a season, having previously scored twice in a 3-2 defeat in the FA Cup. This achievement echoed the feats of Harry Chambers in the 1920-21 season.
An Electrifying Start
Salah kicked off the 2021-22 season with a bang.
On the opening day of the Premier League campaign, he displayed his prowess by contributing a goal and two assists in Liverpool’s emphatic 3-0 victory over Norwich. Notably, Salah became the first player in Premier League history to score in the opening game of five consecutive seasons.
Joining the Century Club
On September 12, Salah reached a significant milestone by scoring his 100th Premier League goal in a convincing 3-0 win against Leeds United. His consistent goal-scoring record was gaining more recognition.
Another Century, More Records
Salah’s goal-scoring spree continued.
On September 25, he scored his 100th Premier League goal for Liverpool in a thrilling 3-3 draw away to Brentford. In achieving this milestone in 151 games, Salah set a new Liverpool record, doing so in one game fewer than the legendary Roger Hunt.
Conquering Europe
Salah’s influence wasn’t limited to domestic competitions.
On October 19, he etched his name in Liverpool’s history books by becoming the first player to score in nine consecutive games. His two goals played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s 3-2 victory over Atlético Madrid in the UEFA Champions League. Notably, Salah’s second goal, his 31st in the Champions League, made him Liverpool’s all-time top scorer in the competition, surpassing the 30 goals scored by Steven Gerrard.
Dominating Manchester United
One of the standout moments of the season came on October 24 when Salah delivered a scintillating performance against Liverpool’s arch-rivals, Manchester United. In a remarkable 5-0 victory at Old Trafford, Salah scored a hat-trick. In doing so, he achieved several milestones:
He became the highest-scoring African player in Premier League history, surpassing Didier Drogba’s record of 104 goals.
Salah became the first Liverpool player to score in ten consecutive games, a remarkable feat.
He also became the first Liverpool player to score at Old Trafford three games in a row, echoing the heroics of the great Cristiano Ronaldo in 2003.
Additionally, Salah became the first opposition player to score a hat-trick at Old Trafford since Ronaldo’s memorable performance in 2003. It was the first Premier League hat-trick in the history of Old Trafford.
Goal of the Season
Salah’s brilliance shone on October 3, 2021, when he scored a sensational goal against Manchester City. After an astonishing dribble through their defence, Salah netted a remarkable goal. The goal received recognition by being awarded the Premier League Goal of the Month and was later named the 2021-22 Premier League Goal of the Season.
Historic Consistency
On December 1, Salah played a key role in Liverpool’s 4-1 victory against Everton in the Premier League. This win made Liverpool the first team in English top-flight history to score at least two goals in 18 successive games in all competitions.
Champions League Glory
In the UEFA Champions League, Salah continued to be a crucial figure in Liverpool’s success.
On December 7, he scored Liverpool’s opening goal in a 2-1 victory against AC Milan at the San Siro. Liverpool’s win made them the first English club to win all six Champions League group games in the competition’s history. Salah’s goal was his 20th of the season, and he became the first Liverpool player since Ian Rush to score 20 goals in five successive seasons.
Scoring Milestones
Salah’s incredible season was punctuated by more milestones.
On February 19, 2022, he became the 10th player to score 150 goals in all competitions for Liverpool. His goal in a 3-1 Premier League win over Norwich at Anfield made him the second-fastest player to achieve this feat (in 232 matches), behind only Roger Hunt (226 matches).
On April 19, 2022, Salah accomplished a rare feat by becoming the first Premier League player to score five goals against Manchester United in a single season. This remarkable achievement occurred in a 4-0 win at Anfield.
Golden Boot and Playmaker of the Season
The season concluded with Salah’s well-deserved recognition.
On May 22, 2022, Salah was awarded his third Golden Boot after an exceptional season. He shared the award with Son Heung-min, with both players scoring 23 goals.
Salah also secured the Playmaker of the Season award after registering 13 assists during the campaign.
Runner-Up in the UEFA Champions League
In the UEFA Champions League, Salah and Liverpool reached the final but were narrowly defeated by Real Madrid. Despite this setback, Salah’s contributions throughout the season were celebrated and recognized.
Historic Season
While Liverpool narrowly missed out on achieving a historic quadruple, they had a season to remember. The club secured the EFL Cup and the FA Cup, illustrating their ongoing dominance in English football.
Contract Extension and Staying at Liverpool
At the beginning of the season, all eyes were on Mohamed Salah as contract extension talks were in the air. On July 1, 2022, the football world learned that Salah had committed his future to Liverpool by signing a new contract that would keep him at the club until at least 2025. This was not just any contract; it made Salah Liverpool’s highest-paid player, earning an impressive £350,000 per week. The extension showcased Liverpool’s unwavering faith in their talisman and his enduring bond with the club.
Community Shield Triumph
Salah wasted no time in demonstrating his prowess on the pitch. On July 30, 2022, in the FA Community Shield clash against Manchester City, Salah scored a penalty and provided an assist, contributing significantly to Liverpool’s 3-1 victory. This triumph was a testament to Salah’s ability to perform on the big stage.
Record-breaking start to the Premier League
As the new Premier League season kicked off on August 6, Salah was once again in the spotlight. In Liverpool’s 2-2 draw away at Fulham, he found the back of the net and provided an assist, showcasing his exceptional skills. By doing so, Salah became the first player to score on the opening day for six consecutive seasons. Additionally, he equalled the record for the most goals on Premier League opening days, joining the elite company of Wayne Rooney, Frank Lampard, and Alan Shearer.
Historic Champions League Hat-Trick
Salah’s impact wasn’t limited to domestic competitions. On October 12, 2022, in a UEFA Champions League match against Rangers, Salah delivered a performance that will be remembered for generations. Coming off the bench, he scored three goals in just six minutes and twelve seconds, propelling Liverpool to a resounding 7-1 victory. This incredible feat saw Salah break Bafétimbi Gomis’s record for the fastest hat-trick in Champions League history. Moreover, his tally of 38 goals established him as the highest goalscorer for an English side in the competition, surpassing the legendary Didier Drogba and Sergio Aguero.
Climbing Liverpool’s All-Time Top Scorers’ List
On January 7, 2023, Salah continued his ascent in Liverpool’s history books. He surpassed the iconic Kenny Dalglish, claiming the sixth spot on the club’s all-time top scorers’ list. Salah achieved this milestone by scoring the second goal in a thrilling 2-2 FA Cup draw against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Anfield.
Champions League Goal-Scoring Success
Salah’s brilliance in the UEFA Champions League persisted. On February 21, he became Liverpool’s all-time top goalscorer in European competitions, solidifying his legendary status at the club. This achievement was reached by scoring the second goal in a UEFA Champions League match against Real Madrid during the Round of 16.
Although Liverpool faced disappointment by exiting the Champions League, Salah emerged as the second-highest goalscorer in the 2022-23 UEFA Champions League, trailing only Erling Haaland.
Premier League Dominance
March 5, 2023, was a historic day for Salah as he faced Manchester United. In a memorable 7-0 victory, he scored two goals and provided two assists. This performance allowed Salah to make history by becoming Liverpool’s all-time top scorer in the Premier League, surpassing Robbie Fowler’s long-standing record.
Salah’s first goal in this match also marked a personal milestone as he became the highest-scoring Egyptian player in history, with an impressive career total of 303 goals, eclipsing Hossam Hassan’s record of 302 goals scored for club and country between 1985 and 2007.
Record-Breaking Anfield Streak
On May 6, 2023, Salah etched his name further into Liverpool’s history. By scoring at Anfield, he became the first player in Liverpool’s history to find the net in nine successive games at the stadium. This incredible achievement was marked by Salah’s 100th goal at Anfield, a testament to his consistent brilliance.
Mastering the Role of Playmaker
The 2023-24 season marked a significant shift in Salah’s role on the pitch. Manager Jürgen Klopp introduced a tactical change, positioning Salah as a playmaker. The versatile forward embraced this new challenge, displaying his adaptability and world-class abilities. His partnership with Darwin Núñez became a focal point, and Salah continued to thrive in this slightly different role.
Scoring Milestones and Records
Salah’s goal-scoring exploits continued to break records during the season:
On October 21, 2023, in the Merseyside derby, Salah celebrated by scoring his 200th and 201st league goals of his career with a brace.
On October 26, 2023, in a 5-1 victory against Toulouse, Salah achieved another milestone by becoming the highest-scoring Premier League player in European competitions, surpassing Thierry Henry’s record.
A Historic Season and Premier League Applause
While Liverpool narrowly missed out on UEFA Champions League qualification at the end of the 2022-23 season, the team’s performance garnered widespread admiration. Salah, in particular, was lauded as one of the standout performers in the Premier League that season. His consistent excellence and ability to adapt to new roles showcased his world-class capabilities.
A Summer of Offers
The summer of 2023 was filled with intriguing developments for Salah. He received a lucrative two-year contract offer worth £155 million from Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad during the preseason. While this offer could have seen him reunited with his former teammate Fabinho in Jeddah, Salah’s agent, Ramy Abbas Issa, stated emphatically that his client remained “committed” to Liverpool.
Liverpool’s Rejection
On September 1, 2023, Al-Ittihad made another attempt to secure Salah’s services, offering £150 million to sign him. However, Liverpool swiftly rejected the offer, reinforcing their determination to retain their star player.
Evolution into a Playmaker
As the 2023-24 season progressed, Salah’s role on the pitch evolved. Manager Jürgen Klopp adjusted Liverpool’s tactical approach, and Salah adapted seamlessly. Klopp praised Salah’s intelligence and world-class abilities, noting that he was “smart enough to adapt to all these different things.”
More Scoring Milestones
On October 26, 2023, Salah added to his list of accomplishments by scoring the final goal in a resounding 5-1 victory against Toulouse. This goal marked Salah’s achievement of becoming the highest-scoring Premier League player in European competitions, overtaking Thierry Henry.
International Career
Youth Career
Salah’s journey with the Egyptian national teams began during his youth. He showcased his talents on the global stage in the 2011 FIFA U-20 World Cup and the 2012 Summer Olympics. One of the standout moments came when he scored a crucial penalty against Argentina in the round of sixteen during the U-20 World Cup, although Egypt faced a 1-2 defeat.
2012 Summer Olympics
Salah was a key player in the Egypt U-23 team at the 2012 Summer Olympics. He made headlines by scoring in all three group-stage matches. In the opening match against Brazil, Salah netted Egypt’s second goal in a thrilling 3-2 defeat. He continued his scoring streak, equalizing in a 1-1 draw against New Zealand and opening the scoring in a 3-1 victory over Belarus. Egypt’s journey continued into the knockout stage, but they were eventually eliminated by Japan in a 3-0 quarter-final defeat.
Debut and Early Contributions
Salah made his senior national team debut on September 3, 2011, during a 2-1 away defeat by Sierra Leone. His first international goal for the senior team came on October 8, 2011, in a 3-0 victory against Niger, a significant step in Egypt’s journey to qualify for the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations.
World Cup Qualifiers
Salah continued to make a significant impact during World Cup qualifiers. On June 10, 2012, he scored a crucial goal in stoppage time, securing a 3-2 away victory against Guinea in a 2014 World Cup qualifier. Salah’s remarkable performance continued on June 9, 2013, when he scored a memorable hat-trick in a 4-2 away win against Zimbabwe. In the following match, he scored the only goal in an away win against Mozambique, advancing Egypt to the final qualifying group.
Record-Breaking Performances
Salah’s journey was marked by impressive records. On October 10, 2014, he scored in a 2-0 win over Botswana, and he repeated the feat in the return fixture. These goals played a crucial role in Egypt’s 2015 Africa Cup of Nations qualification efforts.
2017 Africa Cup of Nations
Salah was a pivotal part of Egypt’s squad in the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations held in Gabon. He demonstrated his importance with a goal in Egypt’s 1-0 victory over Ghana, securing the top spot in Group D. Salah played a crucial role as Egypt reached the final, where they lost to Cameroon.
World Cup Qualification Heroics
Salah’s name was etched into Egyptian football history during the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. He emerged as Egypt’s top scorer, with five goals during qualification. Notably, he scored both goals in the decisive 2-1 victory over Congo, sending Egypt to the World Cup finals for the first time since 1990.
2018 FIFA World Cup
Despite doubts about his fitness following a shoulder injury, Salah was included in Egypt’s squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. He scored a penalty in Egypt’s 3-1 defeat to Russia and added another goal in a 2-1 defeat to Saudi Arabia.
Further Contributions
Salah continued to shine for Egypt, scoring two goals and providing two assists in a 6-0 victory over Niger in qualifying for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations. He embraced the role of captain for the first time in his international career during a friendly warm-up game against Guinea, where he provided two assists in a 3-1 win.
Stellar Performances in the Africa Cup of Nations
During the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, Salah played a crucial role for Egypt. He scored in Egypt’s 2-0 victory over DR Congo and continued to excel in the tournament.
Captaincy and More Achievements
Salah’s leadership qualities were recognized, and he was named captain of the Egypt national team in September 2019. He continued to represent Egypt, facing his Liverpool teammate Sadio Mané in key encounters.
Scoring Milestone
Salah reached a significant milestone on March 24, 2023, when he scored his 50th international goal for Egypt. This achievement highlighted his prolific goal-scoring abilities and made Egypt the only African team with more than one player who had scored at least 50 international goals.
Mohamed Salah’s international career is a testament to his talent, dedication, and the significant impact he has had on Egyptian football. As he continues to lead both club and country, fans eagerly anticipate more memorable moments and records from the Egyptian king.
Personal Life
Family Life
In 2013, Mohamed Salah tied the knot with his wife, Maggi. Together, they have two lovely daughters, Makka, who was born in 2014, and Kayan, born in 2020. The couple chose to name their firstborn, Makka, as a tribute to the Islamic holy city of Mecca, a place of deep significance in their faith.
Faith and Goal Celebrations
Salah is a devout Muslim, and his faith plays a significant role in his life. His goal celebrations often involve performing the sujud, a gesture of prostration as an act of worship and gratitude to Allah. Speaking about this unique celebration, Salah explained to CNN that it represents a form of prayer and thankfulness for the blessings he has received, combined with a heartfelt request for success. It’s a practice he has followed since his youth and continues to do throughout his football career.
Hobbies and Pastimes
Beyond the football field, Salah has a few hobbies that provide a glimpse into his personality. He’s an avid fan of video games and enjoys playing football on his PlayStation. In a lighthearted confession, Salah once joked that the virtual version of himself in the video game might be even stronger than his real-life counterpart, showcasing his sense of humour and humility.
Culinary Delights
Salah’s culinary preferences reveal a connection to his Egyptian heritage. He has a particular fondness for kushari, a traditional Egyptian working-class dish. Kushari is a hearty meal made from a delightful combination of rice, pasta, and lentils, garnished with various toppings such as spiced tomatoes, chickpeas, and onions. This dish represents not only a delicious meal but also a connection to his roots.
Unintended Influence
In a remarkable and unintended turn of events during the 2018 Egyptian presidential election, Salah’s popularity reached new heights. Many voters, numbering possibly more than a million, opted to spoil their ballot papers by crossing out both candidates’ names and writing “Salah” instead. This extraordinary display of affection and recognition for Salah’s influence demonstrates the profound impact he has on the Egyptian people and their culture.
Mohamed Salah’s life beyond the football pitch is rich with family, faith, personal interests, and even inadvertent political influence. These glimpses into his personal life add depth to our understanding of this exceptional athlete and the values that guide him.
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Conclusion
In the captivating biography of Mohamed Salah, we’ve traced the incredible journey of a football legend. From his early days in Egypt to conquering the world stage with Liverpool and the national team, Salah’s story is one of triumph, dedication, and unwavering faith.
Salah’s club career has seen him become one of Liverpool’s greatest-ever players. His incredible goal-scoring feats, record-breaking moments, and multiple accolades have etched his name into the annals of football history. With a Champions League title and Premier League successes, Salah has undoubtedly earned his place among the sport’s elite.
His international career is equally impressive. Representing Egypt, Salah’s goals and contributions have made him a symbol of hope for his nation. From World Cup qualifications to Africa Cup of Nations heroics, Salah’s journey with the Pharaohs is filled with remarkable achievements and unforgettable moments.
But beyond the footballing accolades, Salah’s personal life offers a glimpse into the man behind the player. His devotion to his faith is unwavering, as seen in his goal celebrations that are filled with gratitude and supplication. He’s not just a footballer but a family man, with a loving wife and two adorable daughters who have brought joy to his life.
Salah’s hobbies reveal his down-to-earth nature, from his love of video games to his favourite Egyptian dish, kushari. These simple pleasures keep him connected to his roots and the people who admire him.
And in an extraordinary twist of fate, Salah’s unintended influence in the political arena during the Egyptian presidential election showcased the depth of his impact on his homeland.
As we conclude the story of Mohamed Salah, we are reminded that he is not only a football superstar but a source of inspiration for millions. His journey is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and the power of faith. Mohamed Salah is more than a footballer; he’s a symbol of hope and an icon for a generation.
In the world of football, there are legends, and then there is Mohamed Salah.