Pep Guardiola could barely muster more than a polite acknowledgement when quizzed on Mohamed Salah‘s new Liverpool contract extension during a press conference on Friday.
The distinct contrast in atmosphere between Manchester City and Merseyside was evident as Guardiola fielded questions. Liverpool fans breathed a collective sigh of relief after the club finally ended months of uncertainty by announcing Salah’s decision to extend his stay at Anfield until 2027 at least.
Such a key deal for the Reds, undeniably bolstering their squad’s confidence, is likely to send a ripple of disquiet through their adversaries – a sentiment subtly conveyed by Guardiola in his media address.
When asked about the significance of Salah remaining in the Premier League, the City manager remarked: “That’s good to Arne Slot and the fans of Liverpool. There’s no doubt the quality of Mo Salah.”
Guardiola’s restraint might well stem from a competitive edge; Salah has notably scored 13 goals and supplied eight assists against his side. If things go according to plan, Salah is poised to bring the heat to the reigning champions in two more Premier League seasons, aiming for glory in 2025/26 and 2026/27.
Dealing with injuries, players past their prime and others not hitting the mark, City finds itself adrift in sixth place this campaign, with a mere seven matches left and Champions League qualification in the balance.
(Image: Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
When quizzed on forthcoming transfer activity aimed at tackling the issues City has faced this season, the Catalan was non-committal: “I don’t know what’s going to happen. Of course, the club is working, but we are not going to have 45 players in the squad as it’s not sustainable, in terms of emotionally for the team.”
He noted that barring Kevin De Bruyne, the fate of other contracts requires attention: “We have to see – except Kevin [De Bruyne] – all the other contracts and we’ll see until the end how they behave – how we are. We are going to see [what happens this summer].”
Speaking to club media as his new Liverpool contract was announced, Salah said. “Of course I’m very excited. We have a great team now. Before also we had a great team. But I signed because I think we have a chance to win other trophies and enjoy my football.
“It’s great, I had my best years here. I played eight years, hopefully it’s going to be 10. Enjoying my life here, enjoying my football. I had the best years in my career.
“I would like to say to [the fans], I am very, very happy to be here. I signed here because I believe we can win a lot of big trophies together. Keep supporting us and we’ll give it our best, and hopefully in the future we’re going to win more trophies.”
