EXPLAINERSport|FootballWhy is Mohamed Salah leaving Liverpool, and which club will he join next?Al Jazeera explains the Liverpool and Egypt icon’s departure from the Premier League and what happens next.

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah has confirmed his departure from the club at the end of the current season. Despite having a year remaining on his contract, Salah will leave on a free transfer. The 33-year-old announced this decision in a video message on social media on Tuesday, Mar 24, 2026.

Although a specific reason for his departure has not been disclosed, Salah previously mentioned a lack of relationship with Liverpool manager Arne Slot. Furthermore, Salah expressed discontent earlier in the season, suggesting he was made a scapegoat for the team's challenges.

There is ongoing speculation regarding Salah's next club. While his agent, Ramy Abbas Issa, stated that Salah's future club is currently unknown, he has been linked with clubs in the Saudi Pro League, including Al-Ittihad and Al-Hilal. Additionally, a move to Major League Soccer in the United States has been mentioned as a possibility.

Liverpool acknowledged Salah's decision to announce his departure early out of respect for his supporters. The club intends to celebrate his achievements later in the year. Meanwhile, Salah remains focused on concluding the current season positively with Liverpool.

Former and current teammates have expressed their admiration for Salah through social media tributes. Notable responses include messages from Andy Robertson and Virgil van Dijk, who praised Salah's contributions to the team.

During his nine years at Liverpool, Salah scored 255 goals in 435 appearances, becoming the club's third-highest goal scorer. He has won numerous awards, including the PFA Player of the Year three times and the Premier League Golden Boot four times. Salah's tenure at Liverpool includes eight major titles, such as two Premier League titles, one Champions League title, and the FIFA Club World Cup.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.