Last night, Achraf Hakimi was crowned African Ballon d’Or ahead of Victor Osimhen and Mohamed Salah. The Pharaoh did not participate in the CAF Awards 2025 ceremony held in Rabat. Once again absent, he was singled out by certain African media who believe that he should have made the trip despite everything. But it should be remembered that he was released a few days ago by the Egyptian selection in order to rest. A trip to Morocco was therefore not in his plans, knowing that it was very likely that it would not be sacred. But it’s not just in Africa that the Liverpool player has ringing ears.
Indeed, he is also the subject of significant criticism concerning his season with the Reds and especially concerning his role within the team. A starter in the eyes of Arne Slot, the Egyptian international has already participated in 16 matches in all competitions this season, including 14 as a starter. Regarding his stat line, he scored 5 goals and delivered 3 assists. Correct numbers. But they don’t say everything. Salah is less radiant and impactful both individually and collectively.
Salah would prevent Wirtz from blossoming
Above all, he doesn’t help his team. This is what he is accused of in Germany, where he is believed to be responsible for the problems of LFC, which is currently eighth in the Premier League standings, and for the complicated integration of Florian Wirtz. Sports Bild explain : “It is striking that he neglected Wirtz and did not highlight the other summer recruits, whose total cost is around half a billion euros. Salah has provided three assists this season, all leading to goals, and all for players who have been at the club longer. Salah is becoming a bigger and bigger problem for Liverpool and Wirtz.”
The German publication added: “he is the king of champions, seeming to block their promising new beginning. And therefore, the future of his successor at the head of the attack: Wirtz, recruited for 140 million euros. There is no doubt that he is destined to be the leader of the future. The question is who will dethrone Salah. The club, the coach or his teammates? It seems entirely possible that Salah will move to Saudi Arabia in the summer of 2026.” In Germany, it is believed that the Pharaoh prevents Wirtz from flourishing and playing at his best level. THE Daily Mail adds that a smear campaign was launched there against Mo Salah, who is considered the Reds’ ball and chain. However, Slot and Liverpool trust him and hope to delay his departure for the CAN. A period during which Wirtz will no longer have excuses and will be able to fully spread his wings if we trust the German press.
