Liverpool glory would boost Mohamed Salah’s Ballon d’Or chances: Arne Slot |
Liverpool manager Arne Slot believes Mohamed Salah has a strong chance of winning the Ballon d’Or, but insists silverware will be key to securing the prestigious award.
The Egyptian forward, 32, has been in outstanding form this season, scoring 30 goals and providing 21 assists across all competitions. He is considered a frontrunner for the Ballon d’Or, widely regarded as football’s top individual prize.
However, Slot emphasised on Tuesday that Salah’s chances will significantly improve if Liverpool clinch major trophies this season.
“It’s a good sign that Mo is in the conversation because it means he is performing well, and so is the team,” Slot said. “But to remain in that discussion, he must maintain this level of performance for the rest of the season.
“In general, players who win the Ballon d’Or usually win trophies as well. So, it’s a great challenge ahead—for him and for us as a team.”
Liverpool currently sit 11 points clear at the top of the Premier League with 11 matches remaining. They are also in the League Cup final against Newcastle and set to face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League last 16.
Despite their commanding league position, Slot dismissed any concerns about complacency. “These players have been in this competition far longer than I have. They know how tough every game is, and with 11 still to play, there’s a long way to go,” he said.
When asked if Salah’s current form could be compared to Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi at their peak, Slot was reluctant to make direct comparisons.
“He has had some incredible seasons at Liverpool, and we hope he continues that for a long time. But to do so, he would need to extend his contract first,” he noted.
Salah has yet to sign a new deal to remain at Anfield beyond this season, and Slot was asked whether his stellar performances could complicate negotiations.
“You can see it both ways,” he said. “The better he plays, the more expensive he might become. If he underperformed, we might have doubts about extending his contract.
“So, it’s best for everyone that he continues performing at this level—maybe except for the one who has to pay him!”
