Liverpool FC have officially confirmed that Mohamed Salah will leave the club at the end of the current season on a free transfer, marking the conclusion of a legendary nine-year tenure at Anfield. The Egyptian forward now faces a decision that could mirror the paths taken by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo: a move to North America’s MLS or a high-profile jump to the Saudi Pro League.
The trend of veteran superstars exiting Europe has accelerated in 2026. Most recently, Antoine Griezmann announced his move to Orlando City to join Messi in MLS. However, Salah is more likely to follow Cristiano Ronaldo to Saudi Arabia.
In December 2025, as contract extension talks with Liverpool stalled, Saudi officials reportedly intensified their pursuit. Salah has been heavily linked to Al Ittihad as a potential replacement for Karim Benzema, who recently transferred to Al Hilal.
Key factors favoring a move to the Middle East include a significantly higher salary package than what MLS can offer and the geographic proximity to his home country, Egypt.
A legendary nine-year chapter ends
Salah’s departure from Anfield is now a confirmed fact, officially announced by Liverpool. Since his arrival at the club in 2017, the Egyptian forward has transformed into one of the most significant figures in club’s history, playing a pivotal role in re-establishing the Reds as a global powerhouse among the world’s elite teams.
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“The forward has reached an agreement with the Reds that will see him close a remarkable nine-year chapter at Anfield. Salah expressed his wish to make this announcement to the supporters at the earliest possible opportunity to provide transparency about his future due to his respect and gratitude for them,” Liverpool stated in an official statement.
Throughout his nine-year tenure at the club, Salah has scored 255 goals in 435 appearances to date, cementing his status as the third-highest scorer in Liverpool history.
Additionally, the Egyptian forward was instrumental in leading the club to an era of global dominance, winning two Premier League titles, the Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup, the UEFA Super Cup, the FA Cup, two League Cups, and an FA Community Shield.
