Mohamed Salah Resumes Sadio Mané Rivalry as Liverpool Icons Were 'Never Best Friends'

Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mané**, once Liverpool's dynamic attacking duo, are reigniting their storied rivalry on the international stage, even as revelations emerge that they were never best friends during their time together at Anfield.[1][2][3]

The Egyptian King and Senegalese star formed one of the Premier League's most lethal front threes alongside Roberto Firmino from 2017 to 2022. Together, they combined for 30 goals in all competitions in a single season, powering Liverpool to Champions League glory and a Premier League title challenge.[2] Their synergy on the pitch was undeniable, terrorizing defenses with blistering pace, clinical finishing, and relentless pressing.[1][4]

However, beneath the success simmered tensions. Mané has now revealed the truth behind their Liverpool 'rivalry', admitting they maintained a professional relationship but were never close off the field. "They never [were best friends]," sources close to the matter confirm, highlighting obvious differences in personality and background.[3] International duties amplified the friction: as teammates for five seasons at Liverpool, they had been fierce rivals for Senegal vs. Egypt even longer, clashing in high-stakes Africa Cup of Nations battles.[1][3]

Now, with Salah still dazzling at Liverpool and Mané thriving abroad, their head-to-head record underscores the competitiveness. Mané's exit to Bayern Munich in 2022 was partly linked to right-wing frustrations overshadowed by Salah's dominance.[1] Recent interviews, including one with Rio Ferdinand, delve into the front three's relationships, exposing the rivalry that fueled their brilliance.[4]

Despite the chill, their Anfield legacy endures—a testament to productivity over personal warmth. As Egypt and Senegal prepare for future showdowns, Salah resumes the duel with his former partner, proving some rivalries transcend clubs.[1][2][3]

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