Virgil van Dijk Urges Mohamed Salah to Remain at Liverpool F.C.

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has expressed his desire for Mohamed Salah to remain at Anfield, describing the Egyptian forward as “so important” to the club’s ambitions.

Salah delivered a standout performance in Liverpool’s 3-0 FA Cup victory over Brighton & Hove Albion F.C., scoring once and providing an assist to help the Reds secure a place in the fifth round.

The 33-year-old’s future has been the subject of speculation. In December, Salah publicly voiced frustration, suggesting he had been “thrown under the bus” and hinting at tensions with head coach Arne Slot during a challenging spell. However, since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations in January, Salah has started every match, contributing two goals and four assists.

Although his current contract runs until 2027, reports indicate he could consider a move this summer after nine years at the club. Saudi side Al-Ittihad previously attempted to sign him in 2023, and interest from the Saudi Pro League remains.

Van Dijk highlighted Salah’s enduring influence, both statistically and within the squad. Salah recently equaled Steven Gerrard’s record of 92 Premier League assists for Liverpool, underlining his continued impact.

“Mo is still a leader and important for me as a captain,” Van Dijk said. “His presence on the pitch benefits the team. He gives much more than just goals.”

The Dutch defender acknowledged that Salah’s high standards often invite scrutiny when his goal tally dips. Prior to the Brighton game, Salah had scored only once in 12 matches, but his penalty against Brighton marked his seventh goal of the campaign. Last season, he netted 34 times as Liverpool lifted the Premier League title, taking his overall tally for the club to 252 goals since joining in 2017.

Van Dijk, who recently signed a two-year extension shortly after Salah renewed his contract in April, admitted both players have faced challenges this season. Liverpool currently sit sixth in the league with 12 wins from 26 matches.

“He’s got one more year left, same as me, so we will see,” Van Dijk added. “I always want Mo to stay. We’ve shared many highs together over the years. He has set the bar extremely high, and nothing has changed in how important he is to us.”

As Liverpool push through the remainder of the season, Van Dijk believes Salah’s leadership and experience will continue to play a crucial role in the team’s pursuit of success.