Mo Salah’s Annual Christmas Message Breaks the Internet, Divides Opinions Among Fans

• Mohammed Salah stirred the pot of controversy with his annual Christmas message
• Salah, a devout Muslim, annually earmarks the Christian festival with his posts on social media
• This year, he delivered a poignant message, preaching peace in the war-torn Gaza area

Opinions among football fans became divided when Egypt and Liverpool forward Mohammed Salah finally shared his annual Christmas message.

Traditionally marking the Christian festival by posting a family picture near a Christmas tree, Salah took a slightly different approach this year.

The 31-year-old, having showcased incredible form this season, used his message to draw attention to the ongoing conflict between Palestine and Israel in Gaza, urging for humanity in the process.

Salah's Christmas post divides fans

As has been the trend in recent years, fans gathered under his post, expressing a range of views on Salah's decision.

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Some fans took issue with the two-time African Footballer of the Year, often citing his Islamic faith as a reason why they felt he shouldn't be seen acknowledging Christmas.

Conversely, other fans, largely Christians or those who celebrate Christmas, praised Salah for his consistent approach to sharing messages on December 25th, acknowledging his commitment despite differing religious beliefs.

Here are some of the comments from fans across social media:

@iamhbozz wrote:

"Salah would rather do whatever he wants to do than give a fuc* about people’s opinions. Merry Christmas, Salah."

Another fan, @Mac071591, had a contrasting opinion of Salah's decision to celebrate Christmas:

"Because Salah is a hypocrite. I've never seen a non-Muslim celebrate Eid."

@lfcnasir11 slammed the Liverpool legend:

"You’re embarrassing to the Muslim world."

@polo_kimanii towed a similar path as @lfcnasir11 and @Mac071591, describing the Egyptian as a shame to Islam:

"This is so uncouth, Salah. You are Muslim, not Christian. Our Christmas is in April. Shame on you, brother."

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@chiddyafc disagreed with the negative commentary, appreciating Salah's decision to celebrate Xmas:

"Thank you Mo enjoy your day."

What's next for Salah?

Salah faces the task of setting aside the usual controversy surrounding his Christmas messages as Liverpool heads to Turf Moor, where they face Burnley on Boxing Day, per Sofascore.

Their aim is to maintain pace with league leaders Arsenal, following a draw against the Gunners in their previous game.

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Mo Salah's 2023 Christmas message

In a related publication, Sports Brief reported that Mohamed Salah faced criticism for diverging from his usual family-oriented Christmas posts.

Despite his stature, he has displayed tolerance and inclusivity by interacting openly across religious and racial divides.

This year, the Liverpool star took an unconventional approach, sharing a black-and-white Christmas tree image on his social media, accompanied by a poignant message.