Options for Mohamed Salah: Saudi Arabia, US, or Staying in Europe?

A New Chapter for Salah at Liverpool

Whether Mohamed Salah decides to go elsewhere this summer will undoubtedly create a significant change in his iconic association with Liverpool football. After spending nine remarkable years at Anfield, it will be unusual to see him don a different jersey as news recently confirmed his departure at the close of the season.

As the 33-year-old superstar prepares for a new adventure, we explore the potential destinations that could host his talents, considering financial capabilities and past expressions of interest.

Destination Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia is emerging as the prime contender for Salah’s next stop. His stature as a prominent Muslim athlete makes him an appealing addition for clubs in the region, significantly impacting their visibility on a global scale.

In 2023, an impressive offer of £150 million from Al-Ittihad was rejected by Liverpool, signifying that the Saudi league sees substantial value in a player of Salah’s caliber.

With Salah’s contract allowing him to leave on a free, clubs like Al-Ittihad, Al-Nassr, Al-Hilal, and Al-Ahli— all under the auspices of the nation’s Public Investment Fund—are likely to be interested in securing his services. Brendan Rodgers’ Al-Qadsiah, also backed by the oil giant Aramco, could also vie for him.

Regarding finances, the Saudi league appears equipped for this acquisition. Football finance expert Kieran Maguire mentions that given Cristiano Ronaldo’s lucrative £170 million per year deal, funding Salah—currently earning £20 million annually—shouldn’t pose a challenge.

However, Salah’s decision will hinge on personal factors, including the current geopolitical situation in the region.

Join Messi in the MLS?

Another avenue for Salah could lead him to the United States, following in Lionel Messi’s footsteps. While the pay in Major League Soccer might not match what Saudi Arabia offers, he could still receive a substantial salary.

The MLS operates with a wage cap but allows designated players—under the “David Beckham rule”—to earn higher wages, accommodating name stars like Messi and Luis Suarez. Currently, in Inter Miami, Messi earns around $20 million, and factoring in profit-sharing, he could potentially command between $70 million and $80 million.

Commissioner Don Garber of the MLS has publicly invited Salah to consider a move, suggesting he may benefit from discussions with players who have made the transition successfully.

The MLS aims to leverage its popularity following hosting a World Cup, and having Salah could serve as a powerful draw for fans and sponsors alike.

Staying in Europe?

While Salah’s form may appear subpar compared to his historic standards, he has still made significant contributions this season with ten goals and nine assists. Unlike his record-setting seasons previously, he still believes he possesses the quality for high-caliber European play.

However, transferring to another elite Premier League club seems unlikely. Although financially strong clubs like Newcastle are backed by Saudi ownership, sustainability regulations may limit their ability to sign him.

Realistically, potential European clubs with the financial clout to sign him include Paris St-Germain, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona, though they must present compelling propositions to lure him away from an established relationship at Liverpool.

Amidst unsteady contracts, Salah’s abilities keep him coveted; hence the analysis hints toward Saudi Arabia and MLS as frontrunners for his next career move.