“End of an Era? Jamie Carragher Urges Klopp to Rethink Mo Salah’s Role After Dismal Performances”
“It’s the end of an amazing run for him. He isn’t what he used to be. The manager needs to find an alternative quickly, else they won’t perform well against better teams.”
These were the candid words from Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher, reflecting on Mohamed Salah’s recent form following Liverpool’s 2-1 defeat to Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley. Salah’s performance was notably underwhelming, earning a rare 3/10 rating, and alarmingly, he registered fewer touches than the goalkeeper—a statistic that has raised eyebrows among fans and pundits alike.
A Decline in Form
Salah, who has been a pivotal figure in Liverpool’s success over the past eight years, has recently shown signs of decline. In the Carabao Cup final, he failed to attempt a single shot or create any chances—a first in his illustrious Liverpool career. This lackluster display was not an isolated incident; in the Champions League exit against Paris Saint-Germain, Salah was similarly ineffective, leading to growing concerns about his current form.
Carragher’s Candid Critique
Jamie Carragher did not mince words in his assessment. He expressed difficulty in being overly critical, acknowledging Salah’s contributions to Liverpool’s past successes. However, he highlighted that Newcastle “battered Liverpool,” suggesting that the team’s energy has waned. Carragher’s comments underscore the urgency for Liverpool to address this decline, especially with crucial fixtures on the horizon.
Tactical Masterclass or Player Decline?
Some analysts attribute Salah’s subdued performance to Newcastle manager Eddie Howe’s tactical approach. By deploying Joelinton and Tino Livramento to dominate Liverpool’s right flank, Howe effectively isolated Salah, limiting him to just one touch inside the box. While tactical nuances play a role, the recurring nature of Salah’s ineffective performances suggests deeper issues.
Klopp’s Dilemma
Jurgen Klopp now faces a challenging decision. Should he continue to rely on Salah, hoping for a resurgence, or should he explore alternative options to rejuvenate Liverpool’s attacking prowess? With the Premier League title race intensifying and other competitions looming, the need for decisive action is paramount.
Looking Ahead
Liverpool’s upcoming fixtures will be a litmus test for both Salah and the team’s resilience. The footballing world will keenly observe whether Klopp heeds Carragher’s advice or places his faith in Salah to rediscover his form. One thing is certain: without addressing this issue, Liverpool risks underperforming against top-tier teams, jeopardizing their aspirations for sil
verware this season.