Football

Mohamed Salah Reveals Steven Gerrard’s Private Dinner Advice Helped Him Accept Liverpool Exit

The Egyptian forward, who departs Anfield after nine years at the end of the 2025/26 season, has opened up about how a candid conversation with Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard gave him clarity on leaving the club on his own terms.
Kwame Asante
Kwame Asante·

Mohamed Salah has lifted the lid on a private meeting with Steven Gerrard that played a significant role in shaping his mindset around his departure from Liverpool, confirming the former club captain visited his home to offer personal counsel ahead of one of the most high-profile exits in Premier League history.

Speaking on TNT Sports’ “The Breakdown” alongside Gerrard, Salah recalled the encounter with warmth. “I remember we had that conversation, and I appreciated that,” he said. “I think people didn’t know that you came to my house. I hope it was a good dinner!”

The 33-year-old elaborated on the impact of Gerrard’s words, which appear to have centred on the importance of leaving a club with dignity and on one’s own terms. “We had a good conversation, and you shared your opinion, and I think I really, really appreciate it,” Salah continued. “I’m glad that I’m leaving now from a big door, and I think this is also something you mentioned to me, just leaving on your terms. I still remember those words, so, yeah, I’m happy about it… It’s time to go.”

Salah first confirmed in March 2026 that he would leave Liverpool at the conclusion of the current season, a decision that will bring to an end a nine-year association with the club. His departure comes a year before the expiration of the two-year contract extension he signed in April 2025 — a deal that had temporarily quieted months of intense speculation over his future during the 2024/25 campaign.

That season proved to be one of the most statistically remarkable of his career. Salah recorded 29 goals and 18 assists, tying the single-season record for goal involvements in the Premier League and contributing directly to Liverpool’s title triumph. The numbers only reinforced what many had already accepted: that Salah stands among the greatest players ever to represent the club.

Across 440 appearances in all competitions for Liverpool, Salah scored 257 goals and registered 122 assists — a record of sustained excellence that helped the club win two Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League. His legacy at Anfield is considered comparable to that of any player in the club’s modern era.

Despite the statistical brilliance, Salah acknowledged that navigating a difficult season for the team this year ultimately brought him a sense of resolution. “I didn’t become old overnight,” he stated. “Last season I had this incredible season. I think I have a lot to give still, and I will see what’s best for me. But also, to go through the season, I feel like, ‘OK, you know what? This is the right thing to do now, and I have peace with it’.”

Gerrard, who captained Liverpool for over a decade before retiring in 2016, has remained a prominent figure in the club’s culture and an influential voice for current and former players alike. His decision to reach out to Salah privately during a period of uncertainty reflects the informal but significant role former players can play in supporting major career transitions.

With his Liverpool chapter drawing to a close, Salah’s next destination remains the subject of considerable speculation. According to reports, the forward is weighing his options carefully, with moves to Turkey among the scenarios being discussed, while a lucrative switch to Saudi Arabia is reportedly not the preferred route. Liverpool manager Arne Slot has confirmed the club intends to give Salah a fitting send-off before the season concludes.

Kwame Asante

Sports writer from Kumasi covering the Black Stars, Ghanaian players abroad and African football at large. Kwame has a background in broadcast journalism and is particularly strong on transfer news and player profiles.

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