New Liverpool manager Arne Sloat has expressed his admiration for Egyptian star Mohamed Salah following the Egyptian's historic achievement at the start of the Premier League season. Salah equaled club legend Steven Gerrard's record for most assists in Liverpool's Premier League history, providing his 92nd assist.
This achievement came during the opening match of the 2024-2025 season against Ipswich Town, where Salah provided the assist for Darwin Núñez's opening goal, making his mark early in the new season and underscoring his immense value to the team under the new manager. This moment did not go unnoticed by manager Slott, who praised the Egyptian player, noting that sharing this number with a legend of Gerrard's stature was exceptional.
Historical context: Salah and Gerrard... legends at Anfield
Since joining Liverpool in the summer of 2017, Mohamed Salah has etched his name in the club's history. He hasn't just been a prolific goalscorer; he's also demonstrated an exceptional ability to create chances for his teammates, making him a complete player and one of the cornerstones of the team's golden era under Jürgen Klopp. Steven Gerrard, on the other hand, remains an enduring icon in the hearts of Reds fans, having spent almost his entire career at the club, serving as an inspirational leader and an exceptional playmaker. For Salah, the prolific winger, to have equaled Gerrard's assist record reflects the profound impact the Egyptian has had on Liverpool's style of play over the years.
The importance of the achievement and Slaught's statements
In his post-match comments, Slot said: “He (Salah) has a lot of records with this club, but to share that record with a great player like Steven Gerrard… they were both incredible players for this club.” The Dutch manager added with a smile: “Unfortunately for Steven, I expect Mo to surpass him… I don’t expect it, but I hope he does.” These words reflect the beginning of a positive relationship between the new manager and the team’s star player, especially after the speculation surrounding their relationship at the end of last season. This public praise will undoubtedly boost morale within the team and underscores the pivotal role Salah will continue to play under Slot.
Local and international impact
Domestically, this record cements Salah's place as one of the greatest players in Liverpool's history and the Premier League's overall legacy. Internationally, Salah's continued achievements further enhance his immense popularity in the Arab world and Africa, where he is considered a role model for millions of young people. Every record he breaks is not only a personal triumph but also a source of pride and inspiration for his vast fan base, which follows his career with passion, thus boosting the global profile of the Premier League and Liverpool FC.
