Wenger’s Ballon d’Or Nod to Salah
Arsene Wenger, the legendary former Arsenal manager, has expressed his strong belief that Mohamed Salah is one of the leading contenders for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award this year. In a recent interview on beIN SPORTS, Wenger emphasized Salah’s exceptional performance, particularly during Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Manchester City. The Egyptian striker has been a consistent force, contributing significantly to his team’s success with 25 goals and 16 assists in the Premier League alone. Wenger, known for his keen eye for talent and tactical acumen, stated, "You wouldn’t rule him out. You have Kylian Mbappe, certainly, to fight with him, Vinicius Junior will fight with him. Tonight we see again what we have seen so many times in the modern game: 67% possession for Man City, 2-0 for Liverpool. This is down to people who are a level above, like Salah. He scored the goal and made an assist."
A Season of Unmatched Brilliance
Salah, now 32, has enjoyed what can be described as the most productive season of his career in 2024/25. His statistics mirror those of football legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo during their peak years at Barcelona and Real Madrid, respectively. Wenger pointed out, "I read somewhere that he contributed with goals and assists to 31 points for Liverpool this season. You cannot rule him out for any special award – this guy is exceptional." The striker’s performance has been nothing short of remarkable, and his contributions have been crucial in Liverpool’s relentless pursuit of the Premier League title. Despite his age, Salah continues to shine, proving that he is among the best in the world.
The Evolution of a Great
One of the most striking aspects of Salah’s career, as highlighted by Wenger, is his consistent improvement over the years. "What I love the most in his career: he became better and better every year, more clinical," Wenger noted. This evolution is a testament to Salah’s dedication and intelligence as a player. While his goal-scoring frequency might have slightly decreased, the quality of his performances has not diminished. Wenger added, "He does less quantity today, but he doesn’t lose quality, and that shows that he is not only a great talent but also a very intelligent player." Salah’s ability to adapt and refine his game has made him a more comprehensive player, capable of both scoring and creating opportunities for his teammates.
Balancing Individual Glory with Team Success
Salah’s journey to becoming a top-tier player has not been without its challenges. Wenger recalled a period of tension between Salah and Sadio Mane, when both strikers were vying for scoring opportunities without always considering the team’s broader strategy. However, Salah has matured, understanding the importance of contributing to the team’s success beyond his own statistics. Wenger remarked, "He understands that to be really great he has to contribute and he has done that really well." This shift in mindset has not only made Liverpool a more cohesive unit but has also elevated Salah’s status as one of the game’s complete forwards.
Uncertain Future, Unwavering Performance
As Salah’s current contract with Liverpool is set to expire in the summer, his long-term future remains a topic of speculation. Despite this uncertainty, it has had no discernible impact on his performances on the field. Liverpool, under the guidance of manager Arne Slot, are now 11 points clear at the top of the Premier League, a testament to Salah’s determination and professionalism. Wenger’s praise underscores the respect Salah has earned from one of the game’s most respected figures, highlighting his ability to perform under pressure and maintain high standards regardless of off-field developments.
Stay Tuned for More Salah Magic
Salah’s incredible form and Liverpool’s dominant position in the Premier League make for a compelling narrative as the season progresses. Fans and pundits alike are eager to see what the future holds for the Egyptian star, both in terms of his contributions to Liverpool and his personal achievements. With platforms like TNT Sports and discovery+ providing comprehensive coverage of the Premier League and UEFA Champions League, viewers can catch every moment of Salah’s brilliance. As Wenger aptly put it, Salah is a player who is "exceptional," and his performances continue to captivate and inspire.
