Inside Mohamed Salah’s Rejuvenation: How Sergio Ramos, Arsene Wenger, and Chess Shaped Liverpool’s Star

When fans think of Mohamed Salah and Real Madrid, the first memory that likely comes to mind is the 2018 Champions League final. It was then that Salah, the shining star of Liverpool, was brought down by Sergio Ramos in a controversial challenge, dislocating his shoulder. This incident not only changed the course of the final, but also had significant long-term effects on the Egyptian’s career, both physically and emotionally.

Salah’s shoulder injury forced him to miss Egypt’s opening match of the 2018 World Cup and left him struggling in the tournament, where his team failed to advance from the group stage. The pain from that moment lingered, and when Liverpool met Madrid again in the 2022 final, Salah was eager for revenge. Unfortunately for the Reds, the result was the same—another defeat to the Spanish giants, a loss that left a scar on Salah’s competitive spirit. Yet, this adversity has only fueled his resilience and has played a key role in his transformation into the player he is today.

Now in the prime of his career, Salah has elevated his game to new heights, both physically and mentally. Under new manager Arne Slot, Liverpool have flourished, with Salah leading the charge, playing a pivotal role in the team’s record-breaking start to the season. He has contributed to 22 goals so far in the 2024-2025 season, a testament to his relentless drive and commitment to self-improvement.

A Vow to Never Limp Off Again

After the 2018 Champions League final, Salah made a personal vow to never be physically overwhelmed again. He committed to improving his fitness, focusing on strengthening his upper body and joints. This dedication has paid off in a significant way—Salah’s physique has transformed. He is now a picture of strength and resilience, with broader shoulders and more defined abdominal muscles. His commitment to conditioning is evident, and he has become a role model for many of his teammates, who look to emulate his dedication to fitness and nutrition.

The Pursuit of Excellence

Salah’s daily routine is a testament to his commitment to being the best. He arrives at Liverpool’s training ground hours before his teammates, where he works on his body, participates in yoga, or engages in ice baths. This obsession with his craft has earned him the respect of both teammates and rivals alike. Salah has even been inspired by the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Francesco Totti, players who maintained their excellence well into their 30s.

Salah’s professionalism extends beyond the gym. He is a big voice in the Liverpool dressing room, a motivator who leads by example. Teammates respect his work ethic, often following his lead when it comes to nutrition and fitness routines. Salah’s influence has made him not just a top player, but a leader and a mentor for the next generation of Liverpool players.

Mental Focus: Chess and Self-Improvement

Salah’s approach to the mental side of the game is just as meticulous as his physical conditioning. A passionate chess player, Salah uses the game to keep his mind sharp and always stay one step ahead of his opponents. His ability to read the game has improved over the years, turning him into a more creative player. He now regularly contributes assists, already boasting 10 this season, alongside 12 goals.

Inspired by success coaches like Tony Robbins and Napoleon Hill, Salah has worked on developing his mental toughness. One of his most influential encounters came with former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger, who advised him that great players always stay in the game, even when things aren’t going their way. Salah has taken this to heart, often scoring crucial goals in the latter stages of matches. His ability to stay focused and turn the game around, no matter the circumstances, has become one of his defining traits.

Enjoying the Journey

Despite his immense success, Salah has never lost his joy for the game. He has learned to manage his emotions on the pitch, even in moments of frustration. As he explained, he now smiles after missed chances, understanding that emotion is fleeting and that maintaining composure is key to long-term success. His enjoyment of the game is evident, and it has translated into some of the best performances of his career.

Thriving Under Slot’s Leadership

The change in management has also played a key role in Salah’s resurgence. Under Arne Slot, Salah has thrived in a system that encourages directness and clarity. Slot’s straightforward approach has brought a fresh energy to the team, allowing Salah and his teammates to flourish. Liverpool are now a formidable force in both the Premier League and Europe, and Salah is arguably the best player in the Premier League this season.

The Final Stretch

As Salah continues to deliver in big games, he remains determined to secure a high point in what may be his final season at Liverpool. With rumors swirling about his future, Salah is focused on one thing: winning. He has declared his ambition to win it all, and with a squad as talented as Liverpool’s, he believes there is no reason why they can’t achieve everything they set out to do this season.

Salah’s quest to finish on a high will take him through crucial matches against the likes of Real Madrid, Manchester City, and Everton, as well as a host of other high-stakes encounters. If this is indeed his final season at Anfield, he is determined to ensure it is one to remember, securing silverware and cementing his legacy as one of the greatest to ever play in the Premier League.

In summary, Mohamed Salah’s evolution as a player has been nothing short of remarkable. From the pain of 2018 to the peak of his powers today, Salah’s resilience, work ethic, and passion for self-improvement have shaped him into one of the best players in the world. As Liverpool continue to compete on all fronts, Salah will undoubtedly be at the heart of their ambitions, striving to end his career at the club on a high.