Former France international Thierry Henry has raised eyebrows regarding Mohamed Salah’s recent comments following Liverpool’s dramatic 3-3 draw with Leeds United on Saturday. Henry argues that Salah’s approach was misguided, even if his frustrations about limited playing time are somewhat justified.
In the last three matches, Salah found himself on the bench twice, extending his goal contribution drought to seven games. Post-match, he openly criticized manager Arne Slot and the club’s management, highlighting a turbulent season for both Salah and Liverpool.
“It feels like the club has thrown me under the bus. That is my sentiment. Someone wanted me to shoulder all the blame,” Salah expressed. “I’ve often stated my strong relationship with the manager, but suddenly it seems we no longer share that connection. It feels like someone doesn’t want me here … I cannot accept this situation. I’ve done so much for this team.”
Despite still training with the squad, Salah was notably absent from the traveling team for Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League match against Inter, attracting criticism, including from Henry.
“Mo Salah’s achievements seem overlooked,” Henry stated during the UEFA Champions League Today pre-match show. “We’re focusing on his recent comments, which I believe were misplaced. You don’t discuss your personal issues publicly when your team is facing challenges. I have been there myself; I took my frustrations directly to the locker room. I’ve vented my frustrations, even to the manager’s office.”
Henry continued by drawing parallels between Salah’s current situation and his own experience at Barcelona during the 2009-10 season when he found himself sidelined against Villarreal.
“While at Barcelona, even when I was placed in the stands, you did not hear me complaining publicly,” Henry remarked. “The previous season, we had won the treble, yet my performance dipped. If you’re not performing, you create openings for others. Arriving at the stadium and finding myself in the stands was not a cause for personal drama. Instead, I focused on the team. I spoke to Pep Guardiola privately about my concerns, not to the media.”
According to Henry, Salah’s public lamentations could disrupt team harmony.
“Your team’s well-being is paramount. I empathize with the urge to speak out and understand the frustration behind it. However, the timing and manner of doing so are crucial. That was misplaced. When discussing relationships, the key one for a coach is with performers. If you’re not consistently delivering, your spot is at risk. Such expectations exist, especially at a club with Liverpool’s stature. Once again, this does not diminish what Salah has accomplished, but the approach needs to change.”
