The announcement Liverpool fans have dreaded for years finally arrived on Tuesday evening. In an emotional social media video, Mohamed Salah confirmed he will depart Anfield at the conclusion of the 2025–26 campaign, ending a nine-year tenure that transformed the club’s modern history.
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Despite signing a contract extension through 2027 just last year, Salah and the club reached a mutual agreement to allow him to leave on a free transfer this June, providing “transparency” for the fans he has called his family since 2017.
1. A Record-Breaking Legacy
Salah leaves as arguably the greatest winger in Premier League history. His numbers are nothing short of astronomical:
Goals: 255 (3rd on Liverpool’s all-time list, behind only Ian Rush and Roger Hunt).
Appearances: 435.
Golden Boots: 4 (A Premier League record-tying feat).
Trophies: 2 Premier League titles (2020, 2025), 1 Champions League, 1 FA Cup, 2 League Cups, and a FIFA Club World Cup.
2. The “Acrimonious” Final Season
While his legacy is secure, his final year has been turbulent. After firing Liverpool to their 20th league title in 2024/25 with 29 goals, the 33-year-old has faced challenges under head coach Arne Slot.
The Fallout: In December, Salah made headlines after being benched for three straight games, later claiming the club had “thrown him under the bus” and stating his relationship with Slot was non-existent.
Form Dip: He has managed 10 goals across all competitions so far this season (5 in the Premier League), a decline from his usual standards as the club pivots toward a new project.
3. “I Will Always Be One of You”
In his farewell video, an emotional Salah thanked the city of Liverpool for becoming his home.
“I never imagined how deeply this club, this city, these people would become part of my life,” Salah said. “Leaving is never easy. You gave me the best time of my life. I will always be one of you… Because of all of you, I will never walk alone.”
4. Where to Next? Saudi Arabia vs. MLS
The race for Salah’s signature is already a frenzy.
Saudi Pro League: Al-Ittihad remains the heavy favorite. Having had a £150m bid rejected in 2023, the Saudi side can now secure him without a transfer fee.
MLS: Rumors suggest San Diego FC or a move to Miami could be on the cards as Salah looks to continue his work as a global icon in the United States.
The Final Farewell
Liverpool’s final home game of the season against Brentford on May 24 is expected to be one of the most emotional days in Anfield’s history. Before then, Salah remains “firmly focused” on helping the Reds in their Champions League campaign, looking to leave with one last piece of silverware.
