MLS Commissioner Don Garber has warmly welcomed the idea of Egyptian star Mohamed Salah, currently of Liverpool, joining an American team in the upcoming summer transfer window. This announcement was made during his participation in the Sports Business Journal (SBJ) soccer business conference in Atlanta, where Garber emphasized that Salah would be a fantastic addition to Major League Soccer.
The summer transfer window in the United States will open on July 13 and continue until September 2. Garber noted that MLS provides a unique platform for players, stating, "If Salah decides to come, we will welcome him with open arms." He added, "I couldn't say that if he hadn't announced his departure from Liverpool."
Event Details
As Mohamed Salah prepares to leave Liverpool at the end of the current season, ESPN has confirmed that Saudi club Al-Ittihad is ready to resume its long-standing efforts to sign the player. However, Salah will face strong competition from MLS clubs, which have successfully attracted numerous stars in recent years, including Lionel Messi, Son Heung-min, Thomas Müller, and most recently, Frenchman Antoine Griezmann, who will officially join Orlando City next summer.
Despite this, the American network reported that San Diego FC, owned by Egyptian businessman Mohamed Mansour, and Chicago Fire, which has previously attempted to sign prominent players like Neymar da Silva, are not currently pursuing Salah.
Background & Context
Mohamed Salah, aged 33, announced last Tuesday that he would leave Liverpool at the end of the current football season for 2025-2026. His career with the English team has been filled with achievements, having won all possible titles, including the UEFA Champions League and the Premier League. Over nine years at Anfield, Salah has become one of the world's leading football stars, earning numerous individual awards, including the Golden Boot as the Premier League's top scorer on four occasions, a record he shares with former French star Thierry Henry.
It is noteworthy that MLS has seen significant growth in recent years, becoming a preferred destination for many global stars, which has contributed to raising the level of competition and popularity of the sport within the United States.
Impact & Consequences
If Mohamed Salah decides to join MLS, it would represent a significant shift in his sporting career, providing him with a new opportunity to shine in a different environment. Additionally, his joining MLS could enhance his popularity in the United States and strengthen the league's status as a preferred destination for distinguished players.
On the other hand, Salah's departure from Liverpool could impact the English team, which heavily relies on his skills and creativity in attack. It will be essential for the club's management to seek alternatives capable of compensating for his absence, which may lead to changes in the team's strategy during the upcoming transfer period.
Regional Significance
Mohamed Salah is considered a symbol of success in the Arab world, serving as an inspiration for many young people in the region. His move to MLS could open new horizons for Arab players and enhance their chances of playing in global leagues. Furthermore, his joining MLS may contribute to strengthening sports relations between Arab countries and the United States, promoting the culture of football in the region.
In conclusion, Mohamed Salah's future remains a focal point for football fans, as everyone eagerly awaits what the coming days will reveal about his next destination.