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Jason McAteer has stated that he is shocked by the exclusion of Liverpool star Mohamed Salah from the Ballon d'Or shortlist. The Anfield legend bagged 25 goals and 14 assists in 44 games for the Reds across competitions in the 2023-24 season.
Speaking about the Egyptian star's quality after his brilliant display in the Reds' UEFA Champions League win over Bologna on the Official Liverpool Podcast, McAteer said (via TBR Football):
“He is one of the best in the world. I said it tonight, he’s not in the Ballon d’Or, he’s not been nominated. I’m shocked, my little boy was on the phone with me and he said ‘Mo Salah has not been nominated for the Ballon d’Or.’ I find that really surprising because he’s such a top player, isn’t he?”
Mohamed Salah is in the final year of his contract with the English giants, with his deal set to expire in the summer of 2025. He has established himself as a legend at Anfield, bagging 217 goals and 94 assists in 358 games for the club.
Gabby Agbonlahor was shocked by Liverpool star Mohamed Salah's exclusion from the Ballon d'Or shortlist
Former Premier League forward Gabby Agbonlahor was shocked by the exclusion of Liverpool star Mohamed Salah from the Ballon d'Or shortlist. Salah had an impressive campaign in Jurgen Klopp's final season at Anfield, bagging 39 goal involvements.
The Egyptian missed out on the shortlist to forwards like Artem Dovbyk and Ademola Lookman. The decision left Agbonlahor baffled and he told the Sports Breakfast in September (via talkSPORT) :
"It’s strange, isn’t it? He had a good enough season."
Despite his exclusion from the Ballon d'Or shortlist, Mohamed Salah has been at his best for Liverpool this season. The Egyptian has scored six goals and bagged five assists in nine games for Arne Slot's side.
The Reds currently sit on top of the Premier League table, one point clear of reigning champions Manchester City after six games played. They will next face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Saturday, October 5.
