The Liverpool forward has, as the biggest star in his homeland, taken on the armband at international level. He has been unable to inspire the Pharaohs to tangible success, unlike multiple Ballon d’Or winners Messi and Ronaldo who have savoured Copa America, World Cup and European Championship glory between them.
Former Premier League star Mido has been critical of Salah on a regular basis, with questions asked of his decision to return to Anfield when picking up an injury at the latest Africa Cup of Nations, and he has told The Untold podcast of why the talismanic figure for Egypt does not sit alongside the all-time greats: “Is Messi as a leader for Argentina like Salah as a leader for Egypt? Salah is Egypt’s star, but does what he does with the national team resemble what Messi does with Argentina? Does Salah do what Ronaldo does with Portugal? Directing players in penalty kicks, saying who will take the shot and who will follow, and imposing his personality on everyone. Salah has evolved mentally, but he has never been a leader on the pitch, the evidence for that is why he didn’t get the captain’s armband at Liverpool? Ask yourself why Salah has never worn the captain’s armband for Liverpool? Don’t say it’s because he’s a foreign player, as this is not a factor in English football, and there is ample evidence. Salah was negatively affected by becoming the captain of Egypt. He would have had more freedom and less pressure if he remained without that armband.”
