Riise Backs Salah's Liverpool Departure: Former Red Says Timing Is Right

John Arne Riise isn't mincing words. The former Liverpool defender believes Mohamed Salah's exit from Anfield comes at the right moment, and his reasoning is difficult to dispute.

On March 24, the 33-year-old Egyptian confirmed he would depart Liverpool when his contract expires at season's end, closing an extraordinary eight-year chapter that saw him net 255 goals and claim third place on the club's all-time scoring charts. His trophy cabinet tells the story of success: a Premier League title, Champions League glory, and numerous other honours. Yet Riise, speaking at the Singapore Cricket Club Soccer 7s tournament, identified a player whose peak has clearly passed.

"He's been absolutely brilliant for Liverpool over many years, but even last season I noticed he wasn't performing at his absolute best level, and this season has been especially noticeable," Riise explained.

Contract drama compounded the situation

Salah's declining form has been accompanied by significant off-field controversy. In November 2024, he told media he felt "more out than in" regarding his Liverpool future — only to reverse course by signing a two-year extension the following April. Fast forward to December, and the Egyptian star was openly criticizing the club for allegedly throwing him "under the bus" after being dropped from the starting XI for three consecutive matches. Hardly the behaviour of someone rediscovering top form.

Riise's assessment cuts to the core: signing a lucrative contract under such circumstances resets expectations upward while actual performance hasn't followed suit. The inevitable criticism becomes unavoidable. It's a predicament Salah entered knowingly.

Despite his support for the departure, Riise emphasized the importance of Salah staying focused through his final weeks. Liverpool face crucial fixtures including an FA Cup quarter-final clash with Manchester City on April 4, followed by a Champions League quarter-final two-legged tie against Paris Saint-Germain on April 8 and 14. These aren't matches where you want a distracted, below-par version of your leading goalscorer. Liverpool's European ambitions — their betting odds, tournament progression, and overall reputation — depend heavily on how the squad performs during this critical stretch.

Slot shouldn't face premature pressure

The Norwegian also defended manager Arne Slot, whose position has faced scrutiny as Liverpool's title defence has crumbled. Speculation linking former teammate Xabi Alonso as a potential successor has only increased the tension surrounding the Dutchman's role.

"He delivered the league championship last season, and you cannot dismiss that by saying it was simply Klopp's team, because he implemented his own tactical approach," Riise stated. "It's bizarre hearing calls for his dismissal and supporters booing."

According to Riise, Slot's position remains secure with the board showing no inclination to make a change. Whether that stability survives if Liverpool crash out of both cup competitions before May arrives remains uncertain.