Michael Owen Has a Clear Message for Mo Salah After Watching Liverpool vs Leeds – He's Spot On

Michael Owen, former Liverpool striker, delivered a pointed message to Mohamed Salah following Liverpool's dramatic 3-3 draw against Leeds United at Elland Road. Salah, benched for the third consecutive match under manager Arne Slot, watched as Liverpool conceded a stoppage-time equalizer, intensifying the growing rift at Anfield.[1]

Salah's frustrations boiled over in an explosive interview where he accused the club of "throwing him under the bus," claimed he was being scapegoated for Liverpool's poor form, and hinted at a potential January exit despite his recent two-and-a-half-year contract extension. With 250 goals in 420 appearances and a key role in last season's Premier League triumph, Salah's streak of 53 consecutive Premier League starts ended recently, including being an unused substitute against Leeds.[1]

Owen, reacting on air, criticized Salah's timing and approach: "You're going to AFCON in a week. Surely you bite your lip, enjoy representing your country and see how the land lies when you get back?" He labeled Salah's outburst as creating "chaos within the club," insisting such public comments are "forbidden" and undermine team unity, especially with Salah's impending absence for the Africa Cup of Nations starting December 15.[1][3]

Liverpool currently sit in eighth place after 15 games, with mounting pressure on Slot. Owen also pointed to two stars behind Salah's dip in form this season—scoring just five goals in 18 appearances—partly attributing it to tactical shifts and absences like against Eintracht Frankfurt.[2] Analysts like Rebecca Lowe and Robbie Mustoe echoed Owen, questioning if a "champion's mindset" excuses the drama, while emphasizing the manager's authority.[3]

Owen's message is clear: Salah must prioritize club stability over personal gripes, particularly with key fixtures against Tottenham, Wolves, Leeds (home), Fulham, Arsenal, and potentially Burnley looming during his AFCON stint if Egypt reaches the January 18 final.[1] His take resonates as "spot on," urging Salah to refocus amid Liverpool's turmoil.

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