As Mohamed Salah prepares to conclude his historic nine-year tenure with Liverpool FC, the football world is intently focused on the next destination for the Egyptian superstar. The 33-year-old forward, whose departure was officially confirmed on Tuesday, leaves Anfield as a Premier League legend after contributing significantly to the club’s recent championship victory under new management.
Saudi Arabia’s Pro League emerges as the most probable landing spot, with multiple factors favoring this transition. The Middle Eastern nation views Salah as an invaluable asset—not only as the world’s premier Muslim footballer but also as a cultural icon for the Arab world. This perspective was demonstrated in 2023 when Al-Ittihad submitted a substantial £150 million bid, which Liverpool declined during Jürgen Klopp’s final season.
The Saudi league’s financial capabilities remain unquestioned, particularly with its Public Investment Fund-backed clubs—Al-Ahli, Al-Hilal, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Nassr—all recognizing Salah’s potential to elevate the league’s global profile. Football finance expert Kieran Maguire emphasizes: “They’re paying Cristiano Ronaldo £170 million annually. Salah currently earns £20 million per year, so financial constraints won’t present obstacles.”
Meanwhile, Major League Soccer presents an alternative possibility, though with different financial dynamics. MLS Commissioner Don Garber has publicly encouraged Salah to consider American soccer, referencing the league’s Designated Player Rule that has previously accommodated stars like David Beckham and Lionel Messi. While Messi’s base salary at Inter Miami reaches approximately £15 million, his total compensation package including ownership shares reaches $70-80 million annually.
European options appear limited despite Salah’s continued Champions League ambitions. While Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona theoretically possess financial capacity, each club presents complications regarding roster construction and strategic direction. A transition to another Premier League club seems particularly improbable given Salah’s legendary status at Liverpool.
As the summer transfer window approaches, the decision ultimately rests on multiple factors beyond finances, including geopolitical considerations and Salah’s personal preferences regarding his footballing legacy.