Salah to Leave Liverpool: What Happens Next
Mohamed Salah's shock announcement that he is leaving Liverpool is the big story of the week. But the real question is: what now? The Egyptian forward - who will go down as one of Liverpool's greatest ever players - will depart at the end of the season, after nine stellar years at the club.
Mohamed Salah's announcement that he will leave Liverpool at the end of the season after nine years was a surprise, but the decision appears settled. Sky Sports News understands the outcome was mutual: Liverpool, Salah and his representatives agreed that he will be free to find a new club this summer, and Liverpool will need to recruit a new attacking option. With Salah's wages now available in the budget, the club can redirect those resources into a replacement. Any transfer fee that would previously have gone to Liverpool if he had been sold instead strengthens Salah's negotiating position for his next contract. Making the decision public now also allows the club and supporters to plan a proper farewell while he could still contribute to Liverpool's remaining cup runs.
Who decided
The choice was reached jointly between the player, his camp and the club. That shared conclusion gives both sides clarity about the summer and avoids uncertainty about his status.
Contract and whether Liverpool regret renewing him
Liverpool offered Salah a two-year contract in the summer of 2025 on lucrative terms following an outstanding preceding season. At the time it was understandable and widely supported by fans. Although his form this season has been below previous highs, the club acted on the available evidence then. In hindsight it looks awkward, but not extending him would likely have drawn criticism too. Liverpool judged they were doing the right thing based on recent performances.
Impact on Arne Slot
Salah leaving does not determine manager Arne Slot's position. Slot is on a long-term deal and the club's immediate priority is to finish the season strongly and pursue trophies. Success in the FA Cup and Champions League would strengthen his case; there are no clear signs that summer staffing moves hinge on Salah's departure.
Where Salah could go next
Nothing is final. His agent has stressed that discussions are ongoing. The leading options look like:
- Saudi Pro League: Clubs linked to the Public Investment Fund remain the frontrunners. Al Ittihad is often mentioned as the best fit, having pursued Salah before; Al Nassr, Al Hilal and Al Ahli are other likely suitors.
- Major League Soccer: MLS clubs remain keen to sign marquee names and would be interested.
- Europe: Moves within Europe are possible, depending on Salah's salary demands and his sporting priorities. PSG is a theoretical option but their recent strategy has emphasised younger home-grown talent rather than expensive superstar signings. If Salah is willing to accept a lower weekly wage, a European club could be realistic; if he seeks top-level pay, the Middle East and MLS look more likely.
Liverpool's succession plan
The club's recruitment approach is not public. Liverpool are unlikely to simply seek a like-for-like clone; they will look for a player whose profile fits the team and the tactical direction the manager wants. The incoming attacker may be chosen to complement players such as Florian Wirtz, Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike rather than replicate Salah exactly.
Bottom line
The exit was mutually agreed and clears the path for both parties. Liverpool free up wages for summer recruitment; Salah gains leverage in negotiating terms that would have been realised by selling him. Saudi PIF clubs are the most talked-about suitors, with MLS and select European clubs remaining possibilities depending on Salah's priorities. The decision does not automatically jeopardise the manager, and Liverpool will target a forward who fits their planned system rather than an exact replacement.
Sports World Zone Staff
Writing on Transfer News
