Rooney Urges Slot to Drop Salah Amid Liverpool’s Poor Form

Former Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney has blamed Mohamed Salah for Liverpool’s recent slump, suggesting that manager Arne Slot should consider benching the Egyptian star.

Speaking on his podcast, as reported by Sky Sports on Monday, Rooney referenced Liverpool’s 3–0 home defeat to Nottingham Forest on Saturday—another game in which Salah, despite having five goals this season, failed to register a goal or assist.

“If I were Slot, I’d make a bold decision to send a message to the rest of the team,” Rooney said. “Salah isn’t contributing defensively. If you’re a new signing sitting on the bench watching him not put in the work—yes, he’s a club legend—but what message does that send?”

Salah, 33, made history last season by becoming the first player to record the most goals and assists while winning the Premier League Player of the Season award. His standout performances helped Slot secure the league title in his debut campaign after taking over from Jurgen Klopp.

However, despite a major summer overhaul—including the big-money arrivals of Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak for a combined £241 million—Liverpool have struggled this season. The Reds currently sit 11th with 18 points from 12 games.

Rooney noted that the team may still be dealing with the emotional impact of the tragic loss of teammate Diogo Jota, but insisted that it does not excuse the lack of intensity.

“They’re clearly going through a tough period,” he added. “But there’s no excuse for not fighting or tackling.”