Former Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann has urged a key Reds star to “leave Liverpool” as he’s become a distraction for manager Arne Slot—and it’s not Mohamed Salah despite widespread speculation around the Egyptian’s future.
In a series of recent comments (including interviews and punditry around January 24-26, 2026), Hamann has repeatedly focused his criticism on Salah, describing him as a potential “distraction” due to ongoing contract uncertainty, benching episodes, public fallout with Slot, and Saudi Pro League links. He argued that Salah’s situation “lingers around the camp,” creates constant media questions (especially when not starting), and adds pressure on the new boss—suggesting a summer parting would benefit both player and club.
However, the headline phrasing “Leave Liverpool, you’ve become distraction for Slot” (echoed in viral posts and Nigerian outlets like Daily Post NG and Pulse Sports) aligns directly with Hamann’s Salah comments. No separate, distinct urging from Hamann targets another player as the “distraction” in the same context—recent reports tie the exact wording to Salah, not alternatives like Dominik Szoboszlai, Virgil van Dijk, or others amid team issues.
Hamann’s broader take: He believes Salah had chances to leave (e.g., Saudi last season) but stayed, yet the unresolved future risks turning him from leader to liability under Slot. “If he stays, it lingers,” Hamann said in one interview, pushing for a “brave” decision to avoid ongoing drama. This fits Liverpool’s turbulent period—recent losses like Bournemouth, inconsistent form, and Salah’s goal drought in the Premier League (last scored domestically in May 2025, though contributing assists and elsewhere).
Fans have reacted strongly: some agree the saga hurts unity and focus, echoing legends like Steven Gerrard and John Barnes on needing commitment; others defend Salah’s legacy and current contributions (pressing, link-up). No evidence points to Hamann shifting the “distraction” label elsewhere—it’s firmly on Salah in available coverage.
If this refers to a fresh twist or misattributed quote, it hasn’t surfaced in major reports yet. Liverpool’s priority remains stabilizing under Slot, with Salah reintegrated post-AFCON and performing in big wins like Marseille. A summer exit remains “inevitable” in some insider views, but for now, the distraction narrative centers on the Egyptian King.
What do you think—fair call from Hamann, or should Salah fight for his spot?
