LIVERPOOL, England — Mohamed Salah lingered long after the final whistle, standing before the Kop roughly 20 minutes after full time as he took in the acclaim that closed his Liverpool career. The Egypt international leaves after nine years, 442 appearances and 257 goals; Andy Robertson is also departing after nine seasons, having established himself as one of the club’s greatest defenders, according to the report.
The occasion allowed for other moments of reconciliation. Jordan Henderson, who left Liverpool for Al-Ettifaq in July 2023 amid controversy, received a warm reception as well. Henderson captained Liverpool to six trophies during 12 years on Merseyside, the report said.
The match itself was a subdued 1-1 draw with Brentford, one that carried little consequence for either side. Curtis Jones put Liverpool ahead shortly before the hour, tapping home from Salah’s 93rd Premier League assist for the club — a tally that, according to the report, puts him ahead of Steven Gerrard for the most assists in the competition for Liverpool. Kevin Schade equalised minutes later after some questionable defending, and neither team seized control thereafter.
As the players completed their customary lap of appreciation, head coach Arne Slot sat alone in the dugout. The Dutchman had acknowledged earlier that this campaign was the most challenging of his career, and the report noted lingering questions about whether he can restore the support of a fanbase that has at times appeared to turn on him and whether supporters will grant the patience needed for a transition.
Summer uncertainty stretches beyond the coaching staff. Ibrahima Konaté, who was substituted in the second half, is due to see his contract expire at the end of next month. Jones’ subdued celebration in front of the Kop prompted questions about his future amid reported interest from Inter Milan; Alisson Becker is said to have admirers in Italy. Joe Gomez, Wataru Endo and Federico Chiesa were also named among those linked with moves away, the report added, leaving Liverpool facing a period of significant deliberation.
