Liverpool manager Arne Slot has backed Mohamed Salah’s chances of winning the Ballon d’Or this season, emphasizing that major trophies will be crucial in securing the prestigious award for the Egyptian star. Despite Salah’s stellar individual performances, Slot insists that silverware is necessary for the forward to claim his first Ballon d’Or.
Salah has been in sensational form, scoring 30 goals and providing 21 assists across all competitions this season. The 32-year-old forward is a leading contender for the award, which recognizes the world’s best footballer. However, Slot stressed that for Salah to stay in the conversation, Liverpool must continue their strong run of form and secure trophies.
“It’s a good thing that Mo is in the discussion because it means he is performing well and that we are doing well as a team,” Slot said. “But to stay in that discussion, he must maintain his performances over the long term.”
Liverpool are currently dominating the Premier League, holding an 11-point lead over second-placed Arsenal with 11 games remaining. Additionally, they are set to face Newcastle in the League Cup final and have a Champions League showdown with Paris Saint-Germain in the last 16. Slot, however, dismissed any fears of complacency among his players as they aim for silverware across multiple fronts.
The Liverpool boss was also cautious when asked to compare Salah’s form to that of footballing legends Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, choosing instead to focus on his forward’s impressive contributions to the team.
“He’s had some exceptional seasons at Liverpool, and we hope he can continue this form for years to come, but first, he must extend his contract,” Slot added.
Salah’s current form raises questions about his potential new deal, with Slot acknowledging that the forward’s success could make negotiations more complicated. “The better he performs, the more expensive he might become,” Slot said. “But for everyone else, it’s the best scenario—maybe not for the one who has to pay him, but for everyone else, it’s great.”
