Liverpool Star Mo Salah Confirms Departure at Season's End

Mutual termination of contract a year early amid reported tensions with manager Arne Slot

Mar. 28, 2026 at 9:05am

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After nine stellar seasons at Liverpool, where he became the club's third all-time leading scorer, Mohamed Salah has confirmed he will be leaving the club at the end of the current campaign. The 33-year-old Egyptian international and the club have reached an agreement to terminate his contract a year early, despite having one season remaining. While the exact reasons remain unclear, reports suggest Salah's relationship with manager Arne Slot had deteriorated, leading to the premature exit.

Why it matters

Salah's departure marks the end of an era at Anfield, as the prolific forward was a key part of Liverpool's recent success, helping the club win the Premier League, Champions League, and other major trophies. His exit will leave a significant void in the team's attacking lineup and fan base, and raises questions about the direction of the club under Slot's leadership.

The details

Salah, who joined Liverpool in 2017, has been sidelined with a muscle injury sustained in the Champions League win against Galatasaray on March 18. He missed the recent defeat to Brighton and withdrew from Egypt's international fixtures, but is targeting a return for the FA Cup quarter-final against Manchester City on April 4. In 34 appearances this season, he has recorded 10 goals and 9 assists.

  • On March 24, Salah announced his departure from Liverpool via an emotional video.
  • Salah's contract with Liverpool was set to expire in 2027, but the two parties have agreed to terminate it a year early.

The players

Mohamed Salah

A 33-year-old Egyptian international and one of Liverpool's all-time leading scorers, with 255 goals in 9 seasons at the club.

Arne Slot

The current manager of Liverpool, who has reportedly had a deteriorating relationship with Salah, leading to the player's early departure.

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What they’re saying

“The relationship with Arne Slot. It became an absolute certainty: Salah and Arne Slot simply could not exist in the same team next season.”

— Ismael Mahmoud, Journalist

What’s next

Salah is expected to join a Saudi Arabian club, with Al-Ittihad reportedly preparing a lucrative package to make him the face of the league. His future destination remains a topic of speculation, with MLS clubs like San Diego FC also expressing interest.

The takeaway

Salah's departure from Liverpool marks the end of a legendary tenure, but also raises questions about the club's direction under Slot's leadership and the player's relationship with the manager. The move to Saudi Arabia could signal a new chapter for the prolific striker, though his legacy at Anfield is secure.