Mohamed Salah Criticized for Lack of Hunger at Liverpool

Mohamed Salah’s Form at Liverpool Under the Microscope

Mohamed Salah, the iconic Liverpool forward, has found himself at the center of criticism this season amid a noticeable dip in form. Club legend Graeme Souness was particularly vocal, accusing Salah of showing a “lack of appetite” and suggesting a worrying change in attitude since the start of the campaign. Souness first noticed the warning signs during Liverpool’s Community Shield match against Crystal Palace in August, where Salah’s characteristic drive appeared missing.

Salah’s Legacy and Recent Struggles

Since joining Liverpool from AS Roma in 2017, Salah has been a transformative figure for the Reds. His blistering pace, clinical finishing, and relentless work ethic have led Liverpool to multiple domestic and European titles. He has claimed the Premier League Golden Boot four times and was twice named Player of the Season. Last term, Salah contributed a remarkable 57 goals and assists in 52 games, propelling Liverpool to a historic 20th league title—an effort rewarded with a new contract.

However, this season has painted a different picture. The 33-year-old has scored just four times in the opening 12 Premier League matches, and observers have pointed to a lack of defensive involvement. Critics argue that Salah, once renowned for his all-action displays, now appears less committed, especially when Liverpool are out of possession.

Graeme Souness: “His Brother Turned Up This Season”

In a candid chat with talkSPORT, Souness remarked, “He’s been an absolute superstar and the go-to man for seven years. But this season, it’s like his brother has turned up.” Souness highlighted a moment in the Community Shield when Salah failed to press the opposing full-back, interpreting it as a sign of declining hunger. “He’s never been the bravest, but he always made life difficult for defenders. This year, I see a lack of appetite, and sometimes, hard words are needed.”

Opponents Exploiting Liverpool and Salah

Salah’s waning intensity hasn’t gone unnoticed by rivals. After Chelsea’s 2-1 victory over Liverpool, Blues defender Marc Cucurella admitted their tactical plan targeted Salah’s flank. “We tried to attack on their right side because we know Salah is always ready to attack, not defend. There was space there, so we used it to our advantage,” Cucurella explained. Salah’s focus on attacking, at the cost of tracking back, has increasingly become an Achilles’ heel for Jürgen Klopp’s side.

Calls for Leadership Amid Liverpool’s Slide

The scrutiny intensified after Liverpool’s 3-0 defeat at Nottingham Forest, which left them languishing in 12th place. Former Reds stalwart Jamie Carragher called on Salah to step up as a vocal leader, stating, “I only ever hear Salah speak when he gets man of the match or wants a new contract. I’d like to see him come out as one of the leaders and speak for the team.” Carragher’s remarks echo a growing sentiment among Liverpool supporters that, with the club in transition, Salah’s experience and voice are needed more than ever.

What Next for Salah and Liverpool?

Liverpool’s next test comes midweek in the Champions League against PSV, followed by a Premier League clash with West Ham. Manager Arne Slot will be hoping for a turnaround, both in results and in Salah’s on-pitch attitude. For more news on Liverpool and the latest football developments, visit for more news.

Opinion: Can Salah Recapture His Magic?

While age inevitably influences performance, it’s premature to write off Mohamed Salah’s Liverpool legacy. His achievements are unparalleled in the Premier League era, and the hunger that made him a superstar could yet fuel a comeback. However, urgency is required—both from Salah to rediscover his edge and from Arne Slot to inspire a collective response. The coming weeks will reveal whether this Liverpool icon can silence his critics and lead by example once more.