Like many other goals in Liverpool's colors, Mohamed Salah immediately understood the meaning of a moment. It was in January 2020 at Anfield, when the match against Manchester United entered tense added time. Alisson Becker's quick pass opened up an opportunity for Salah to accelerate, surpass Daniel James before defeating David de Gea.
That was not the last time Salah took off his shirt to celebrate, but it was the first time in the season that The Kop stands sounded the affirmation: "Now you will believe us, we will win the championship". And they did it.
That is just one of Salah's 255 goals for Liverpool - a huge number, but also the most iconic goal. Between Salah and the fans, there is a special bond: understanding of the aspiration and energy to conquer glory. In more than 9 years, they have gone through all levels together - from the peak of titles to bitter defeats.
Joining AS Roma in 2017, Salah quickly made his mark with 44 goals in his first season. Since then, he has maintained an incredible scoring efficiency, never having a season below 23 goals in all competitions before this season. Together with Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino, he created one of the most fearsome attacks in Premier League history, and developed into an excellent assist provider when his partners left one after another.
Last season, with 47 direct goals after 38 matches, Salah may have had the best individual season in the history of the league. But it is also the extraordinary standards he set himself that make his recent decline unacceptable. The harsh statement at Elland Road in November last year showed that a star would not easily accept his decline.
Liverpool and Salah reaching a farewell agreement this summer is therefore considered reasonable. It opens up an opportunity for him to receive a farewell worthy of his legendary position. Teammate Andy Robertson bluntly said: "You deserve a farewell that reflects your position - the greatest".
Salah left Anfield as the third greatest scorer in club history, only after Ian Rush and Roger Hunt. In terms of historical stature, he stands on par with icons like Kenny Dalglish or Steven Gerrard. But in terms of cultural influence, few people in Liverpool history can compare to the Egyptian star.
The rare point that can be considered a shortcoming in Salah's career is his mark in major finals. He has faced many disadvantages against Real Madrid, from injury after a collision with Sergio Ramos in 2018 to a sad memory in 2022. His only FA Cup final also ended early due to injury.
Even so, Salah still scored the opening goal in the 2019 UEFA Champions League final - a turning point for Jurgen Klopp's era. And above all, his special quality lies in his ability to feel the rhythm of the championship race like a true fan.
Liverpool is not just a club, but passion, history and spirit" - Salah shared in his farewell. From a boy growing up in the Nile Delta, he became an immortal symbol at Anfield.
Salah's image at Anfield will live forever, very long after the songs about him end.
