Hours before the scheduled match between Manchester United and Liverpool on Sunday in the ninth round of the English Premier League, global media focused on stars Mohamed Salah and Cristiano Ronaldo, particularly since tomorrow's match marks their first direct encounter in the Premier League.
Mohamed Salah spoke about the match, stating that facing Manchester United will be extremely challenging, and that the encounter should not be limited to a personal duel between him and Ronaldo. He added in media statements: "The match will be tough; Manchester United is a good team with strong players and a fantastic manager. They will try their best to win the game, and similarly, we want to achieve victory." Salah also discussed Cristiano Ronaldo, saying: "Ronaldo's return to the Premier League is wonderful. He has achieved a lot of success outside the English league, and of course, Manchester United signed him to win titles."
He clarified: "I see the match in a way that victory should be achieved for the three points for both teams. I don't want to limit the match itself to a duel between one or two players." He concluded: "I am always looking for a win, and I hope to achieve it against Manchester United."
On the other hand, Cristiano Ronaldo spoke generally, without specifically mentioning Mohamed Salah. He said: "I know when the team needs my help defensively. But my role in the club is about achieving victories, helping the team win, and scoring goals, while the defensive aspect is part of my job."
He added: "Those who do not want to see what I'm doing? They don’t like me, but to be honest, I’m 36 years old and I’ve won everything. Should I worry about those who say bad things about me?" Ronaldo continued: "I sleep well at night. I go to bed and my conscience is very clear, and I continue to do so because I still silence critics and win titles."
He further mentioned: "Criticism is always part of the job. I’m not worried about that, and I see it’s good to be straightforward. If they are worried about me or talk about me, it’s because they know my potential and value in football are still the same." He concluded: "Okay. I'll give you an example: If you were in school and you were the best student, when you ask the worst student if they like their best classmate, they will say they don't like him."
