Full Breakdown
Mohamed Salah's Future: MLS or Europe?
3/31/2026, 9:30:01 PM
Diverging Opinions on Salah's Next Move
As Mohamed Salah prepares to leave Liverpool FC after a successful nine-year tenure, speculation about his next destination has intensified. The Egyptian national team director, Ibrahim Hassan, has publicly advised Salah against moving to Major League Soccer (MLS), suggesting that he should remain in Europe or consider the Saudi Pro League. Hassan argues that a transition to MLS would diminish Salah's visibility and impact on the global stage, stating, “You won’t remember Salah any more than I remember Messi now.” He emphasized that Salah, who has achieved significant success in Europe, should seek opportunities with elite clubs like Paris Saint-Germain or Bayern Munich.
In contrast, MLS Commissioner Don Garber has welcomed the idea of Salah joining the league, pointing to the success of Lionel Messi in MLS as evidence of the league's growing stature. Garber remarked, “Leo Messi is the most popular player in the world. I’d be happy to send an Apple subscription to the head of the Egyptian FA so he can watch as many Messi games as he’d like.” He acknowledged the skepticism surrounding MLS but highlighted its development, noting that the league is now considered among the top 15 globally, with 36 players participating in the 2022 World Cup.
The Competitive Landscape: MLS vs. Saudi Pro League
While Garber promotes MLS as a viable option, Hassan views the Saudi Pro League as a more suitable alternative if Salah opts to leave Europe. He cited the presence of stars like Cristiano Ronaldo as a factor that enhances the league's competitiveness and visibility. The Saudi Pro League has gained traction in recent years, attracting high-profile players and investments, which Hassan believes could provide a better environment for Salah as he approaches the latter stages of his career.
Despite the allure of financial incentives in both MLS and the Saudi Pro League, critics argue that a move away from Europe could tarnish Salah's legacy. Many believe that staying in a top European league is essential for maintaining his status as a global icon, especially with the upcoming 2026 World Cup, where Salah is expected to lead Egypt.
Official Statements & Responses
Garber emphasized the growth of MLS, stating, “We have national team players that have played in Major League Soccer... We’ve got some of the best players in the world playing here.” He acknowledged the ongoing skepticism about the league's quality but expressed confidence in its trajectory. Meanwhile, Hassan's comments reflect a broader concern about the perception of MLS, suggesting that even a player of Messi's caliber has experienced a decline in global visibility since moving to the U.S.
Criticism & Opposition
The debate surrounding Salah's potential move has sparked criticism from various quarters. Some football analysts argue that transitioning to MLS or the Saudi Pro League would signify a retreat from elite competition, potentially impacting Salah's performance and legacy. They contend that remaining in Europe, where he can compete at the highest level, is crucial for both his career and Egypt's national team aspirations.
What's Next for Salah?
As Salah prepares for his final matches with Liverpool, including a farewell tour, the discussions about his future continue to unfold. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, Salah's decision will not only affect his career trajectory but also have implications for Egypt's performance on the international stage. The ongoing speculation about his next club remains a significant narrative in the world of football, as fans and analysts alike await his final decision.
