Arne Slot said he is delighted Mohamed Salah has put pen to paper on a new Liverpool, speaking for the first time since the news was confirmed on Friday.
After months of speculation, it was finally announced that Salah has agreed a two-year extension at Liverpool, a welcome boost for Slot and the Reds heading into the final seven games of the season, and before the summer transfer window.
“I signed because I think we have a chance to win other trophies and enjoy my football,” Salah said as the news was confirmed, an indication that the success achieved this season under Slot was a factor in his decision.
Reacting to the news, Slot said: “Happy of course. He’s shown at this club for some many years in a row how much value he has for the team and the club. Like all our fans and his teammates, we are very happy he has extended for two more years. Hopefully he can show on Sunday again how important he has been for the whole season.”
Slot admitted the news didn’t come as a surprise to him “For the fans it is [relief]. I don’t think it’s a surprise for you that I knew a bit better how his contract situation went over the course of the whole season. Maybe for the fans for the fans it was a pleasant surprise. I knew it for a bit longer that things were going in the right direction.
“He’s always judged as a footballer but he’s a humble human being and puts in a lot of effort to get to that level. Mo can score a goal if he is not in the best half an hour or 15 minutes. He is mentally so strong and you need that if you are to succeed here for eight years.”
(Image: Getty Images)
Slot was also asked if Salah can continue to develop in the next two years: “We are always trying to move as a team and individuals. If you are playing for Liverpool you are close to the maximum of your ability. There’s not much room for improvement for Mo or any player. It is clear Mo is coming near to the end of his ability.
“It is important and I’m sure our fans are pleased to see his signing and it is a positive vibe for the club. Mo performed so well with you guys [the media] only talking about the contracts. It is always positive to see one of our star players has chosen to extend his contract. It shows how ambitious this club is.”
Slot also praised FSG and football director Richard Hughes for getting the deal concluded, joking that it mainly involved offering Salah a generous wage package to entice him to stay.
“I think it is also a big compliment for Richard that he achieved the extension. Mo Salah, as a free agent, can go to every club in the world. But he stayed at our club and that’s also a compliment for Richard.”
