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Toni Kroos shares what Liverpool fans have noticed about Mohamed Salah this season

Originally posted on HITC | By Josh Barker | Last updated Feb 3, 2026 8:51 AM ET

Since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations, Mohamed Salah has quickly re-established himself as a key part of Arne Slot’s Liverpool line-up.

Before heading off to represent Egypt, Salah had made headlines after criticising the club publicly and was subsequently left out of the Champions League clash with Inter Milan.

Even with speculation swirling about a possible move in 2026, nothing materialised during the winter window and he stayed put at Anfield.

Slot has kept faith in him since then, naming him in every starting XI since his return. But at 33, his form hasn’t quite matched expectations.

Toni Kroos highlights Mohamed Salah’s declining pace

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So far this season, Salah has six goals and six assists but is no longer the club’s leading scorer, a title now held by Hugo Ekitike.

But it’s not just about the numbers. Supporters have been noticing other areas of concern in his game lately.

During the recent match against Newcastle, one moment stood out when he was chased down by Kieran Trippier after being put through on goal.

Speaking to Luppen TV, Kroos said: “But I thought in the first half, even when he had space, it was noticeable that his top-end speed isn’t there right now, in my eyes. Especially with the ball – with Salah you always felt he was faster with the ball than without it, and I think that’s dropped off.”

Has Mohamed Salah already lost his place at Liverpool?

Heading into the summer, the Saudi Pro League’s interest in Salah hasn’t faded. This time, though, Liverpool might actually be prepared to let him go and make some changes to their setup.

The arrival of Jeremy Jacquet later this year could see Slot move to a back five, relying on wing-backs to bring speed and width.

This shift would also allow Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike to feature together once the former recovers from injury.

Liverpool have already been linked with 19-year-old RB Leipzig talent Yan Diomande, who has recorded a top speed of 36.01km/h in the Bundesliga this season.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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