Liverpool’s Pharaoh in a rut: Salah’s slump tests the Reds’ heart and soul

Context

Has the Pharaoh become one of the Reds' woes?

Liverpool have shown a noticeable downturn in overall performance this season, despite important signings made previously. The results haven’t lived up to expectations and the team exited early from the tough race for the Premier League title.

In this climate, Dani Murphy, a Liverpool legend, sparked a heated debate about Salah’s role in the decline, arguing against placing all blame on Arne Slot and pointing out that some players — especially Salah — let the Dutch coach down due to underperformance and a lack of the required character at a club of Liverpool’s stature.

Murphy, speaking on TalkSPORT, noted that Salah’s form has clearly dipped this season, even though he scored in the latest match.

The overall contribution of the Egyptian star, including defensive work and attacking creativity, hasn’t stayed at its former level, and this is cited as one of the main factors behind the team’s struggles.

There are other issues in the squad, such as the decline of certain wide players in defensive roles who no longer reach the standard set by Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson, plus Alexander Isak’s form both physically and mentally, and a notable drop in Cody Gakpo’s creativity and impact compared with last season.

Nevertheless, Murphy pointed to positive exceptions like Hugo Ekitike delivering pride on the pitch, and Florian Wirtz emerging strongly in recent weeks.

Overall, this analysis frames Salah’s decline as part of Liverpool’s current crisis, urging a comprehensive review of elements that need revival to restore balance and competitiveness.

Two quick punchlines to end on a lighter note: if Salah’s form were a download, it would still be buffering in 1999; and perhaps the Wi‑Fi in Anfield is finally improving — one bar at a time.