Liverpool’s pre-season officially kicked off on Friday night with a 1-0 victory over Real Betis.
The Reds delivered a solid performance against the Spanish team, offering a first glimpse of how the Merseyside club might operate under Arne Slot.
While Liverpool handled Betis comfortably, their play wasn’t particularly thrilling. Mohamed Salah had a noteworthy performance, adopting a wider position rather than his usual role as an inside forward, which was common during Jurgen Klopp’s tenure.
In a discussion on the Official Liverpool Podcast, John Barnes shared his thoughts on Salah’s new role at Liverpool.
Barnes suggested that the Egyptian forward might transition into a more creative position, focusing on playing a more supportive role rather than his traditional goal-scoring roles in the upcoming season.
John Barnes Reckons Mohamed Salah Role May Change Next Season
Barnes spoke about the £34m man and his role at Liverpool now.
“It seems as if Mo may play more of a supportive role in terms of being more creative. Of course, Mo plays well with a centre-forward who comes short and he makes those inward runs.
“You didn’t see Mo make many inward runs today. He was playing a bit wider,” Barnes said.
“They will have to tinker with that if you get more goals from midfield, if they don’t get more goals from midfield I think Mo will get 30 or 40 goals, but as long as they share it around it will be fine.”
Mohamed Salah’s role at Liverpool might undergo a transformation.
Few managers globally utilise their wingers as uniquely as Klopp has with Salah, so the Egyptian forward may need to adjust his style of play.
Salah will remain a key player for Liverpool and retain his importance, but he might need to contribute in ways beyond just scoring goals.
While Salah will still be a formidable presence, his goal-scoring rate might not be as high as it has been in the past.
In other Liverpool news, “I Like Him a Lot” – Dominik Szoboszlai Names One Liverpool Youngster He Raved About to Quansah During Pre-season Game