Sadio Mane may now get the last laugh over Mohamed Salah as former Liverpool rivalry reignites

The article explores how the long-running, largely friendly rivalry between Sadio Mané and Mohamed Salah has been subtly reignited, and why Mané may yet have the “last laugh” over his former Liverpool teammate. It recalls their time together under Jürgen Klopp, when they formed one of Europe’s most feared attacks and pushed each other to extraordinary levels of performance and productivity. While Salah ultimately finished with the more prolific Liverpool goal record, Mané is framed as the catalyst who helped transform Klopp’s side from top‑four hopefuls into serial trophy winners.

The piece revisits the infamous 2019 Burnley flashpoint, when Mané reacted angrily after being substituted having been ignored by Salah in a promising attack. What was widely interpreted as evidence of a personal feud is re‑cast as a moment of intense professional competitiveness between two elite forwards desperate to be decisive for their team. Subsequent comments from Mané about the incident – stressing that he was never angry with Salah as a person, only frustrated by decisions on the pitch – are used to underline the respect underpinning their relationship.

The article then contrasts the paths their careers have taken since Mané’s departure from Anfield. While Salah has remained the focal point at Liverpool, Mané initially struggled to find the same impact after leaving, prompting debate over who had “won” their quiet rivalry. Now, however, with Mané resurgent and again competing directly with Salah on the international stage and in individual honours, the narrative is shifting. The suggestion is that, in the broader legacy conversation – factoring in club success, international achievements and the way he elevated Liverpool at a crucial moment – Mané’s case is strengthening.

Ultimately, the article argues that the rekindling of their rivalry only enhances both players’ legacies: Salah as the records man, Mané as the game‑changing figure who may yet emerge with the deeper, more rounded claim to greatness.