Captain Van Dijk Urges 'So Important' Salah to Stay at Liverpool

By BBC Sport, Published February 2026

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has made an impassioned plea for Mohamed Salah to commit his long-term future to the club, describing the Egyptian forward as "so important" to the team's success. Speaking ahead of Liverpool's crucial Premier League clash against Manchester City, Van Dijk emphasized Salah's irreplaceable role in the squad.

"Mo is so important for us, on and off the pitch," Van Dijk told reporters. "His goals, his assists, his leadership – everything he brings is massive. We want him to stay, and I'm sure the club is doing everything to make that happen." Salah's contract expires at the end of the season, sparking intense speculation about a potential move to Saudi Arabia or elsewhere, with clubs like Al-Hilal reportedly ready to shatter transfer records.

Salah, 33, has been in scintillating form this season, netting 25 goals and providing 15 assists across all competitions, propelling Liverpool to the top of the Premier League table. Despite his stellar performances, contract talks have stalled, with Salah previously expressing frustration over the lack of progress. "I'm focused on the pitch, but decisions will be made soon," Salah said recently.

Van Dijk, who signed a new two-year deal last summer, highlighted the stability Salah's presence provides amid Liverpool's title challenge. "We've built something special here. Losing Mo would be a huge blow. He's not just a player; he's a legend at this club." Manager Arne Slot echoed these sentiments, praising Salah's professionalism and hunger for trophies.

Fans have rallied behind the "Stay Mo" campaign, with banners and chants filling Anfield. As negotiations intensify, Van Dijk's public endorsement underscores the unity within the squad. Liverpool face a pivotal week, with the City derby followed by a Champions League tie, where Salah's form could prove decisive.

Key Takeaways:

• Salah's contract runs out in June 2026.
• Van Dijk: "So important" – plea for renewal.
• Liverpool lead Premier League by 5 points.

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