Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has criticised Mohamed Salah for Liverpool’s poor run of form, suggesting that manager Arne Slot may need to drop the Egyptian star to spark a reaction within the squad.
Rooney made the remarks on Monday, referencing Liverpool’s 3–0 home defeat to Nottingham Forest on Saturday a result that highlighted the Reds’ ongoing struggles this season. Despite scoring five goals so far, Salah has failed to register a goal or assist in recent matches.
Speaking on his podcast, Rooney said Slot must be bold:
“If I were Slot, I’d try and make a big decision just so it has an impact on the rest of the team. Salah is not helping them defensively.”
He added that Salah’s lack of work rate could demotivate other players waiting for opportunities:
“If you’re one of the players on the bench and you see him not running and again he’s a club legend what message does that send?”
Salah, 33, made history last season by becoming the first Premier League player to finish a campaign with the most goals and assists while also winning the Player of the Season award. His form helped Slot secure the league title in his debut season after replacing Jurgen Klopp.
However, Liverpool have failed to replicate last season’s brilliance. Despite spending £241m on summer signings including Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak, the Reds sit 11th in the Premier League with 18 points from 12 matches.
Rooney also pointed to the emotional impact of Diogo Jota’s recent tragedy on the squad but insisted it still does not excuse Liverpool’s poor work ethic:
“That surely has to have an effect. But then there’s no excuse for not fighting and not tackling.”
