Podcast Summary: The Athletic FC Podcast – "Will Liverpool Give Salah What He Wants?"

Release Date: November 25, 2024
Host: Ayo Akinwolere
Guests: James Pearce, Si Hughes, Mark Carey

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The Athletic FC Podcast, host Ayo Akinwolere delves into the pressing question surrounding Liverpool's star winger, Mohamed Salah: Will Liverpool give Salah what he wants? With Salah expressing concerns about his future at Anfield, the podcast brings together insightful analysis from Liverpool writers James Pearce and Si Hughes, along with data analyst Mark Carey, to explore the implications of Salah's statements and his evolution as a pivotal player for the team.

Mo Salah's Contract Status and Public Statements

The episode kicks off with Salah's candid remarks following Liverpool's 3-2 victory over Southampton. Salah stated, "[...] I haven't received any offer to stay yet in the club so probably I'm more out than in" (Mark Carey, 03:30). This rare transparency from Salah, who seldom engages with the English media, has ignited speculation about his future at Liverpool.

James Pearce recounts his exclusive conversation with Salah, highlighting the gravity of Salah's comments:

"Mo Salah had something he wanted to get off his chest. [...] it's abundantly clear that Mo Salah had something he wanted to get off his chest." (03:44)

Si Hughes interprets Salah's public comments as a strategic move to apply pressure on Liverpool:

"He only ever speaks when there's a reason to speak. [...] it's very very clear that he [...] is interested in staying at Liverpool once an offer is on the table" (05:02).

Fan Reactions and Expectations

Salah's status as Liverpool's top goalscorer and his exceptional performance this season have galvanized the fanbase. Ayo references a popular fan banner: "He fires a bow now give Mo his dough."

James Pearce shares fan sentiments:

"Every fan I speak to is absolutely desperate for Liverpool to resolve this. [...] having Salah play for anyone else next season is incredibly unpalatable." (07:55).

Fans admire Salah's resilience and consistent output, making the prospect of his departure unsettling. His current form—12 goals and 10 assists in 18 appearances—underscores his indispensability.

Analyzing Salah's Evolution and Performance

The episode transitions into a deep analysis of Salah's development at Liverpool. Salah's adaptability and relentless work ethic have allowed him to maintain, and even enhance, his performance levels despite advancing age.

Mark Carey emphasizes Salah's durability and balanced contributions:

"[Salah] is performing incredibly well and that rate of 1.3 goals or assists per 90 minutes is currently on par with his first season at Liverpool." (26:36).

Si Hughes, author of Salah's biography "Chase and Salah," explores the personal motivations driving Salah:

"He is desperate to win. [...] his commitment to himself indicates to me that, unless it's bad luck or he gets a really bad injury, I can't see a massive drop off in him yet." (18:28).

The discussion highlights Salah's strategic evolution—from a pure goalscorer to a more versatile playmaker, increasing his assists and creative involvement on the pitch.

Liverpool's Strategic Position and Future Prospects

With Liverpool currently eight points clear at the top of the Premier League, the team's trajectory remains strong. Host Ayo outlines upcoming critical fixtures, including matches against Real Madrid in the Champions League and a pivotal Premier League game against Manchester City.

Si Hughes forecasts the significance of these matches:

"If Liverpool beat City, you're obviously then going into the Merseyside derby full of confidence against an Everton team that just can't score goals at the moment." (38:30).

The podcast underscores the importance of Salah's role in maintaining Liverpool's momentum and the challenges the club faces in securing his future amidst his public demands.

The Challenge of Replacing Salah

A recurring theme is the formidable task Liverpool would face in attempting to replace Salah. His unique blend of speed, creativity, and consistency makes him irreplaceable.

James Pearce asserts Salah's irreplaceability:

"You think the late equalizer down at Arsenal. [...] it's Mo Salah. [...] replacing the irreplaceable." (35:13).

Si Hughes adds to this sentiment, emphasizing Salah's integral role in Liverpool's dynamics:

"[Salah] is the go-to man when Liverpool really need them. [...] it's getting hard to see that changing at the minute." (31:51).

Conclusion

The episode concludes with a consensus that Mohamed Salah remains a cornerstone of Liverpool's success. His unparalleled performance, coupled with his strategic public statements, positions him as a pivotal figure in Liverpool's quest for silverware this season. The hosts and guests agree that Liverpool must navigate this delicate situation carefully to retain Salah's talents and sustain their competitive edge.

James Pearce wraps up with a reflection on Salah's future:

"I just don't see him [Salah]... this changing at the minute because you know you can only judge someone on what we're seeing and what you know, the body of work they've got." (37:51).

As Liverpool approaches crucial fixtures, the episode emphasizes the urgency for Anfield to address Salah's contractual concerns to ensure the continuation of their successful partnership.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Mark Carey [03:30]: "I haven't received any offer to stay yet in the club so probably I'm more out than in."

• James Pearce [03:44]: "Mo Salah had something he wanted to get off his chest."

• Si Hughes [05:02]: "It's very very clear that he [...] is interested in staying at Liverpool once an offer is on the table."

• James Pearce [07:55]: "Every fan I speak to is absolutely desperate for Liverpool to resolve this."

• Si Hughes [18:28]: "He is desperate to win. [...] I can't see a massive drop off in him yet."

• Mark Carey [26:36]: "[Salah] is performing incredibly well and that rate of 1.3 goals or assists per 90 minutes is currently on par with his first season at Liverpool."

• Si Hughes [38:30]: "If Liverpool beat City, you're obviously then going into the Merseyside derby full of confidence."

• James Pearce [35:13]: "You think the late equalizer down at Arsenal. [...] it's Mo Salah."

• Si Hughes [31:51]: "[Salah] is the go-to man when Liverpool really need them."

• James Pearce [37:51]: "I just don't see him [Salah]... this changing at the minute because you know you can only judge someone on what we're seeing and what you know, the body of work they've got."

Final Thoughts

This episode of The Athletic FC Podcast provides an in-depth exploration of Mohamed Salah's current standing at Liverpool, both on and off the pitch. Through expert analysis and firsthand accounts, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of the complexities surrounding Salah's future and the broader implications for Liverpool FC as they strive for continued success in the Premier League and European competitions.