Salah’s Quest for the Ballon d’Or
Steve McManaman, a football legend with a keen eye for talent, believes that Mohamed Salah needs to clinch the UEFA Champions League this season to have a realistic shot at winning the prestigious Ballon d’Or. Despite Salah’s remarkable performances and Liverpool’s dominant run towards the league title, a European trophy could be the decisive factor in securing the coveted award. "If you’re going to be talking about Ballon d’Or winners, you have to lift this trophy," McManaman stressed, highlighting the importance of continental success. While Salah’s goal-scoring record is impressive, it is still surpassed by the likes of Robert Lewandowski and Harry Kane, who lead their respective leagues in goal-scoring. The key, according to McManaman, lies in who can lift the Champions League trophy at the end of the season, as that will likely tip the scales in favor of the winner.
The Knockout Stages: A New Challenge
Liverpool’s journey in the UEFA Champions League has been nothing short of stellar, as they topped their group with flying colors. However, the real challenge begins in the knockout stages, where they will face formidable opponents. Their next test comes in the form of an in-form Paris Saint-Germain, led by one of Europe’s most prolific players, Ousmane Dembele. Despite PSG’s recent struggles in the Champions League, their new-look, youth-centric side poses a significant threat to Liverpool’s dominance. "When you get to the knockout stages of the Champions League, these are the teams you have to beat," McManaman emphasized. He added that the road ahead will only get tougher, with potential clashes against giants like Real Madrid and Arsenal on the horizon. "There are huge, huge games coming up, and if you want to be the best, you have to beat the best," he said, underscoring the gravity of the upcoming matches.
Rio Ferdinand on Salah
Rio Ferdinand, a former Liverpool legend and one of the most respected voices in football, echoed McManaman’s sentiments about Salah. He praised Salah’s exceptional qualities, noting his phenomenal efficiency and consistency. "His efficiency is through the roof, consistency. And you could switch off for that one moment in the game and he’ll capitalise, he’ll punish you," Ferdinand said, highlighting Salah’s ability to make a game-changing impact. However, Ferdinand also warned that Salah might have quieter moments in the upcoming match against PSG. "He’s a fantastic football player, this guy," Ferdinand concluded, reinforcing the notion that while Salah is a world-class talent, the Champions League will test his mettle in new ways.
Arne Slot’s Impact on Liverpool
Arne Slot, the Dutch manager who took the helm at Anfield less than 10 months ago, has made significant strides in improving Liverpool’s performance. One of his most notable achievements has been transforming Liverpool’s midfield, which was previously considered a weak point. Slot’s tactical adjustments have allowed players like Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch to flourish, and the impact has been palpable. "It’s been a masterstroke really, considering Liverpool were really close to bringing in Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad before he changed his mind," McManaman noted. The manager’s decision to build around the existing talent has paid dividends, with every substitution having a positive impact on the game. "Every substitution he makes has an impact on the game, and that’s exactly what you are crying out for," McManaman added, expressing hope that this form will continue into the crucial Champions League matches.
The Importance of Continental Success
The UEFA Champions League is not just a competition; it is a stage where the world’s best players and teams are judged. For Mohamed Salah, winning the Champions League could be the missing piece that elevates him to the status of a Ballon d’Or winner. While his domestic performances are impeccable, the global stage of the Champions League provides the platform to showcase his talents against the best in the world. "Liverpool have done it a few years ago, they’ve been in a couple of other finals, they need to do it again," McManaman said, emphasizing the need for Liverpool to replicate their past successes. The pressure is on, but with a manager like Slot and a squad brimming with talent, Liverpool are well-positioned to make a deep run in the tournament.
Streaming the Action
For fans eager to follow Liverpool’s Champions League campaign, TNT Sports and discovery+ offer an unparalleled viewing experience. TNT Sports will broadcast over 500 matches from the UEFA Champions League, the UEFA Europa League, and the UEFA Conference League across the 2024/25 season. The streaming home for TNT Sports in the UK is discovery+, where fans can enjoy a subscription that includes access to TNT Sports, Eurosport, and a plethora of entertainment content all in one place. Whether you are a die-hard Liverpool fan or a casual viewer, the upcoming matches promise to be a thrilling spectacle, with Salah and his teammates aiming to etch their names in the annals of Champions League history.
