Wayne Rooney has launched a fierce critique of Mohamed Salah, accusing the Liverpool forward of disrespecting manager Arne Slot through repeated public outbursts. The Manchester United legend called for the Egyptian winger to be excluded from Liverpool's final match against Brentford, arguing that Salah has crossed a line with his conduct during his final days at Anfield.
Salah's latest controversy stems from social media comments expressing a desire to return to "heavy metal" football—widely interpreted as criticism of Slot's tactical approach compared to predecessor Jurgen Klopp. Speaking on his podcast, Rooney expressed disappointment at how one of Liverpool's greatest ever players is handling his departure. "I find it sad at the end of what he's done and what he's achieved at Liverpool. It's not the point for him to come out and aim another dig at Slot," Rooney said, suggesting the Egyptian winger's legs may no longer sustain the intensity of Klopp-style football.
Performance Decline and Deflection
Rooney attributed Salah's recent behaviour to an attempt at self-vindication following a significant dip in form. After scoring 29 Premier League goals last season, Salah has managed just 12 goals across 40 appearances this campaign as Liverpool's title defense collapsed dramatically. "I think Salah's trying to vindicate himself and make himself feel better because he's had a very poor season. So I think he's been very selfish in what he's done," Rooney claimed, suggesting the 257-goal Liverpool legend is deflecting from personal underperformance onto his manager.
The former England captain drew parallels to his own experiences under Sir Alex Ferguson, recalling being dropped from Ferguson's final Old Trafford match following a disagreement. Rooney argued Slot must demonstrate similar managerial authority to protect the dressing room's discipline. "If I was Arne Slot, I'd have him nowhere near the stadium in the last game. You can't publicly disrespect him twice the way he has and get away with it," Rooney insisted, emphasizing that departing players cannot undermine their manager's authority without consequence.
While acknowledging Salah's legendary status in the Premier League, Rooney remained firm that his recent conduct undermines any claim to a ceremonial farewell. The debate highlights the tension between honoring a player's historical legacy and maintaining discipline in the final weeks of a tumultuous season for Liverpool.
