Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah admits to past tension with Sadio Mane

Mohamed Salah has acknowledged there was some truth to reports of tension between himself and former Liverpool teammate Sadio Mane, although he emphasised that the pair always maintained mutual respect.

Speaking to L’Équipe, Salah revealed that while he and Mane were not particularly close during their time under Jurgen Klopp, their relationship remained professional and never disrupted the team’s dynamic.

Rumours of friction between the duo circulated for years, notably intensifying after a high-profile incident during the 2019/20 season – Liverpool’s first Premier League title-winning campaign – when Mane reacted angrily after Salah failed to pass him the ball during a match against Burnley.

Despite any personal differences, the two forwards were instrumental in Liverpool’s success.

Together, they scored a combined 296 Premier League goals, shared the Golden Boot in 2018/19, and formed a fearsome attacking trio alongside Brazilian striker Roberto Firmino.

Salah said: “Yes, there was tension with Sadio. Mind you, we were professional until the end, I don’t think it affected the team. Off the pitch, we weren’t very close, but we always respected each other.”

He added: “I don’t care. People can think what they want, it’s their right. But I invite everyone to note that the person who provided Mane with the most assists is me. At the end of the day, I know what I did, and my conscience is clear.”

Salah’s incredible achievements at Liverpool have solidified his place in Anfield folklore and cemented his legacy as one of the Premier League’s all-time greats.