Liverpool supporters will have no shortage of cherished memories to recall when Mohamed Salah bids farewell to Anfield this summer. Over his remarkable nine-year tenure, the 33-year-old Egyptian forward delivered an astonishing 235 moments of pure joy, elation, and delight, playing a pivotal role in guiding the club to significant domestic and international silverware. Here, we revisit five standout moments from Salah's illustrious career with the Reds, as highlighted by Dominic King.
1. Penalty Against Tottenham: Champions League Final, Madrid, June 1, 2019
Mohamed Salah had waited an entire year for this opportunity. In the previous Champions League final in Kiev, he was forced off in tears after Sergio Ramos dislocated his shoulder in a controversial incident that left manager Jurgen Klopp furious, with Real Madrid securing a 3-1 victory. The chance for redemption arrived in Madrid, where Salah sought motivation by reflecting on the pain of that moment. This determination fueled the venomous penalty he blasted past Hugo Lloris, securing a crucial goal and avenging his previous heartbreak. It was a moment of sweet redemption, marking his triumph over adversity on Europe's biggest stage.
2. Hat-trick Against Manchester United: Premier League, Old Trafford, October 24, 2021
Once criticized for struggling against Liverpool's fiercest rivals, Salah shattered that narrative in spectacular fashion. After assisting Naby Keita's opening goal, he shifted into overdrive, netting twice before halftime and completing his hat-trick in the second half following a sublime pass from Jordan Henderson. This historic performance made him the first opposition player to score a Premier League hat-trick at Old Trafford, leaving the Stretford End in disbelief as Liverpool romped to a 5-0 victory. It was a dazzling display that cemented his status as a true big-game player.
3. Goal Against Manchester City: Premier League, Anfield, October 3, 2021
During the peak of the Jurgen Klopp-Pep Guardiola rivalry, this match stood out as one of the greatest encounters between Liverpool and Manchester City, characterized by breathless, relentless football of the highest quality. Salah was at the heart of the action, scoring a goal that drew comparisons to Lionel Messi for its exquisite close control, skillful body movement, and ability to bamboozle three defenders before unleashing a right-footed drive past Ederson. This moment showcased the Egyptian at his absolute peak, blending artistry with clinical finishing.
4. Goal Against Manchester City: Champions League Quarter-final, April 10, 2018
Despite Liverpool's commanding 3-0 first-leg lead, Klopp remained anxious about a potential Manchester City comeback in the return fixture. His fears seemed justified when City took a 1-0 lead at halftime, throwing everything into their attack. Amid the frenzy, Salah's composure shone through. When the ball broke to him inside the area, he calmly clipped a left-footed finish over Ederson, then stood with arms outstretched in front of the away fans, as if asking, 'Are you not entertained?' This brilliant strike quelled City's storm and secured Liverpool's progression, highlighting his coolness under pressure.
5. Goal Against Arsenal: Premier League, Anfield, August 27, 2017
Salah's first Premier League goal at Anfield was a moment that felt like it belonged in a video game, offering a glimpse of the special talent Liverpool had acquired for £36.9 million. From an Arsenal corner, Liverpool swiftly turned defence into attack, with Salah sprinting from his own half while three Arsenal defenders chased helplessly. As he neared The Kop, the outcome seemed inevitable, and he duly slotted home, contributing to a 4-0 rout. This early display of speed, composure, and certainty foreshadowed the many goals to come, marking the beginning of an unforgettable journey.
