Despite turning 33 in June, Mohamed Salah leads the list of players with the highest goal contribution rate in the history of the tournament. After 18 matches, the Egyptian striker has scored 17 goals and made 13 assists, averaging a direct goal contribution every 52.7 minutes. This figure far exceeds the 59.1 minutes of Gabriel Jesus (Man City 2016-2017 season) and is even 10 minutes better than Erling Haaland in the record-breaking 2022-2023 season.
Liverpool's recent 5-0 win over West Ham was a prime example of Salah's excellent form. He scored once and assisted twice in the match, taking his total to 30 goal involvements in just 18 games. The Kop star has also set a record of scoring and assisting in eight consecutive Premier League games.
In addition, Salah reached the milestone of 30 assists faster than any player in Liverpool's history, surpassing Luis Suarez's achievement (19 matches). This further affirms his class and deserves to be one of the best players in the Premier League era.
Salah is not only a brilliant striker, but also the centre of Liverpool's play under Arne Slot. With the new tactical scheme, the 32-year-old star is often present in more dangerous attacking positions, especially on the right flank of the penalty area. The Dutch captain has adjusted the system so that Salah and Gakpo play wide roles, while Diaz takes on the role of a "false 9".
Salah has now contributed to 38% of Liverpool's total Premier League goals this season, behind only Chris Wood (42%) and Erling Haaland (44%). Not only that, he has also created more than a third of the Anfield team's expected goals (xG) and big chances.
Despite taking on more responsibility, Mohamed Salah has remained remarkably consistent. The Egyptian star averages a ball recovery in the attacking zone every 113 minutes, his lowest figure since 2018-19, suggesting Liverpool are using him more effectively to conserve his fitness.
Salah not only has excellent technique but also shows maturity in his football thinking. His strong mentality and determination were clearly shown in his classy moves in the match against West Ham.
The 1992-born striker made defender Mavropanos suffer with a delicate nutmeg before making a perfect assist for Cody Gakpo. The highlight of the performance was the assist for Diogo Jota after a skillful dribble, along with a cool goal in the second half.
Despite his impressive form, Salah’s future at Liverpool remains unclear. He has scored at least 20 goals in eight consecutive seasons, but a new contract has yet to be signed. The 33-year-old admitted in a recent interview that “nothing has progressed” in negotiations, despite both parties wanting to stay.
Liverpool's retention of Salah is not only a priority but a must if the Merseyside club are to continue competing at the top level. He is not only a brilliant striker but also a symbol of the club at the moment, who has played a major part in the recent successes of The Kop.
