Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp has spoken for the first time about the ongoing negotiations between the club management and the team's star and top scorer, Egyptian Mohamed Salah, who is demanding an increase in his annual salary to match his on-field contributions and what he achieves for Liverpool. Currently, he earns about €14 million, while he desires an amount exceeding €20 million.
In statements published by the British newspaper "Mirror," Klopp expressed his deep annoyance regarding the discussions about Salah's contract. He stated in an angry tone that he has no involvement in any negotiations regarding this matter and that he has a long-standing principle of not interfering between players and management concerning their contracts. However, he hinted that a player should not be bigger than the club, indirectly referring to Salah, saying that when a player is very important to you, you offer him what you can provide, and if he refuses to accept it because he believes he is much bigger than what is being offered, such negotiations should not continue, according to the coach.
Regarding Salah's agent, Klopp mentioned that it is the agent's role to handle this matter and discuss all details with the club management, rather than being approached by the media to talk about Salah's staying or leaving. He emphasized that he is happy with Salah's contributions and believes he can maintain his current level for years, even after turning thirty, and that he wants him to stay, but the matter is out of his control, and he has no say in determining the player's future.
He confirmed that the situation does not only pertain to Salah but extends to all other stars of the team. Klopp added that when discussing money and contracts, he always maintains a certain distance in this regard with the players, and he does not interfere in these matters. It is worth noting that Salah's contract ends in the summer of 2023, and he currently ranks second in the Premier League in terms of salary, being outperformed by many players who contribute significantly less than the Egyptian star at present.
