At 32, Mohamed Salah seems to be defying the aging process, getting better with each passing season. The Liverpool star has been instrumental in Arne Slot’s impressive start at Anfield, with his recent goal against Aston Villa cementing the Reds’ five-point lead at the Premier League’s pinnacle.
The Unstoppable Mohamed Salah: A Cristiano Ronaldo Comparison
Salah’s remarkable tally for the season stands at 10 goals and 10 assists across all competitions, second only to Manchester City’s Erling Haaland in the Premier League scoring charts. His exceptional form has led Liverpool legend Ray Houghton to place him in the same elite category as Cristiano Ronaldo.
Speaking on talkSPORT Breakfast, Houghton praised Salah’s unwavering commitment to maintaining top physical and mental condition, likening him to Ronaldo.
“I think the best example is Cristiano Ronaldo,” Houghton said.
“You look at what Ronaldo has done to himself and how he’s kept himself in prime condition. It’s about attitude, living the right way, and applying yourself. Mo is in that category. He wants to play for as long as he can because he loves football, scoring goals, and assisting.”
Houghton’s comparison holds weight, especially given Ronaldo’s career trajectory, who has scored more goals in his 30s than in his 20s. Similarly, Salah has shown no signs of slowing down since turning 30 in June 2022.
He has consistently hit the 20-goal mark in all competitions over the last two campaigns.
Under new manager Arne Slot, Salah’s all-round game has reached new heights. “Not only is he scoring, but he’s also making goals. He’s become an all-round player this season,” Houghton continued.
This evolution in Salah’s gameplay has been instrumental in Liverpool’s success this season. Slot’s tactical approach demands higher defensive contributions from his attackers, a challenge Salah has embraced with vigor.
“He’s absolutely fantastic when you watch Mo perform. His energy levels this season have been incredible,” Houghton added.
“They press high, and if they don’t win the ball back quickly, they sprint back into defensive positions. Every player does this, not just one or two. Mo is key to this strategy.”
With his current contract set to expire in June 2025, Liverpool fans are hopeful that Salah’s exceptional form and love for the club will lead him to extend his stay at Anfield. His contributions on and off the pitch have made him not just a star but a legend in the making.
In the twilight years of his career, Salah’s dedication, fitness, and versatility continue to set him apart, drawing comparisons to football’s greatest, including Cristiano Ronaldo.
As he continues to shine, the Anfield faithful can only watch in awe and hope for many more magical moments from their Egyptian king.
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