Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher believes that Mohamed Salah‘s legacy in the Premier League surpasses that of both Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney, with only the legendary Thierry Henry ranking higher.
Carragher’s remarks followed Salah’s announcement on Tuesday that he would depart Liverpool at the conclusion of the season after nine record-breaking years with the club.
The Egyptian star has played a crucial role in Liverpool’s success during his tenure, clinching a Champions League title and two Premier League championships among his accolades.
Carragher has positioned Salah as the second-best overseas attacking player in the Premier League’s history.
“Mohamed Salah’s upcoming departure from Liverpool signifies the end of a remarkable chapter for the club,” he stated in his Telegraph column.
“Liverpool’s loss will also be felt in English football. In the realm of foreign forwards who have thrived in England, only Thierry Henry matches Salah’s output and consistency.”
“While discussions may arise regarding the excellence of players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Eden Hazard, Gianfranco Zola, Dennis Bergkamp, or Eric Cantona, none have achieved the same level of consistent, high-impact performance that Salah has, season after season.”
“If we were to form an all-time Premier League XI, Salah’s name would undoubtedly feature in the front three alongside Henry and Ronaldo.”
Carragher emphasized that Salah’s role in Jürgen Klopp’s successful Liverpool era is vital, noting how the forward helped shift the club’s fortunes since Klopp’s arrival.
“When we reflect on the glorious era under Jürgen Klopp, Salah will always be associated with the triumphs of both the Premier League and the Champions League,” he remarked.
“If Klopp was the visionary director, Salah was the inspirational lead actor.”
“Thanks in large measure to Salah’s brilliance, Liverpool transformed from a side merely hoping to qualify for the Champions League to one fully believing it could win the title every time it entered the competition.”
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Salah’s remarkable ability to stay injury-free is another aspect of his career that Carragher greatly admires.
“Beyond his exceptional goal-scoring and speed, there’s an often-overlooked quality that deserves recognition when discussing Salah’s legacy among the greats,” he expressed.
“His extraordinary durability is a key factor—during his nine seasons at the top level, Salah has made 435 appearances, averaging over 48 matches each year for Liverpool.”
“Such numbers are remarkable considering the intense physical and mental demands placed on him and his team throughout that time.”
“Nothing impresses me more than world-class athletes who have the commitment to never miss a game.”