ANFIELD BLOCKBUSTER: Former Liverpool Star Shocked as He “Urges” Arne Slot to Ditch £87m Superstar in Favor of Barcelona’s “Sweeper”

Former Liverpool winger Ryan Babel has ignited a storm of debate after claiming that Mohamed Salah was unfairly denied the 2025 Ballon d’Or due to “political reasons.” In a passionate and eye-catching interview, the Dutchman not only defended Salah’s brilliance but also called on Liverpool manager Arne Slot to make a bold transfer move — by replacing Dominik Szoboszlai with Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong.

Babel, who represented Liverpool between 2007 and 2011, made the comments during a conversation with 365Scores, sending shockwaves through the Reds’ fanbase. The outspoken former winger insisted that Salah’s performances last season were more than enough to merit global recognition, and he believes the Egyptian icon was “robbed” of the game’s most prestigious individual honor.

Salah’s Ballon d’Or Snub: A Political Conspiracy?

Salah’s omission from the top three at this year’s Ballon d’Or ceremony has been one of football’s hottest talking points. The Egyptian forward delivered another staggering campaign in 2024/25, scoring 34 goals across all competitions, including 31 in the Premier League, as Liverpool stormed to their 20th league title, finishing ten points clear at the top.

However, when the world’s elite gathered at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, it was Paris Saint-Germain’s Ousmane Dembélé who lifted the trophy, edging out Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal and PSG midfielder Vitinha. Salah, despite his unmatched consistency and match-winning brilliance, had to settle for fourth place — a decision that left fans and pundits baffled.

Babel didn’t mince words when addressing the situation. “I don’t understand why Mohamed Salah didn’t win the Ballon d’Or,” he said. “Maybe he missed out because of political reasons? But in my opinion, he truly deserved it. What he’s done for Liverpool — year after year — cannot be ignored.”

The former Dutch international went further, suggesting that Liverpool’s Champions League exit at the hands of PSG might have influenced voters. The Reds bowed out on penalties in the Round of 16, a cruel ending that Babel believes unfairly overshadowed Salah’s individual brilliance. “Football is about more than one night,” he added. “Salah has carried this club for years. One result shouldn’t define greatness.”

Babel’s Bold Advice to Arne Slot

In a surprising twist, Babel also used the interview to urge Arne Slot to reshape his midfield — even if it means parting ways with one of Liverpool’s marquee signings. According to Babel, Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong would be the ideal fit for Slot’s dynamic system, offering a level of control and composure that could elevate the team even further.

“I have great respect for Szoboszlai,” Babel admitted. “He’s a talented player, no doubt. But if Liverpool really want to dominate Europe again, they need someone who can dictate the tempo like Frenkie de Jong. His vision, his ability to sweep and connect defense to attack — it’s world-class. Under Slot, a Dutch core could take Liverpool to another level.”

Szoboszlai, who arrived from RB Leipzig in a deal worth £87 million, has shown flashes of brilliance but has also faced criticism for inconsistency in big games. Babel’s suggestion that De Jong — often described as Barcelona’s “midfield sweeper” — could outperform the Hungarian has reignited debates about Liverpool’s creative structure under Slot.

Liverpool’s Midfield Evolution Under Slot

Since taking charge, Arne Slot has introduced a more fluid, possession-oriented style at Anfield, emphasizing tactical flexibility and technical precision. While the transition has been largely successful, Liverpool’s midfield remains a work in progress. Injuries and rotation have prevented Slot from establishing a consistent trio, and Babel believes that’s exactly why a signing like De Jong could be transformative.

“Frenkie is used to pressure,” Babel explained. “He knows what it means to play for a big club, to handle expectations every week. If Slot could bring him in, Liverpool would have one of the most complete midfields in world football.”

While the suggestion may seem ambitious, given De Jong’s importance to Barcelona, Babel’s comments reflect a growing belief among some fans that Liverpool still lack a natural playmaker capable of dictating matches at the highest level.

Salah’s Legacy Remains Unshaken

Despite the Ballon d’Or controversy, Salah’s status as one of Liverpool’s greatest ever players remains unchallenged. With over 230 goals since joining the club in 2017, his consistency and professionalism continue to inspire teammates and fans alike. Arne Slot has praised Salah’s leadership both on and off the pitch, describing him as “the ultimate example for any player in the dressing room.”

As for Ryan Babel, his words may have stirred controversy, but they’ve also sparked reflection. Whether or not Liverpool ever move for Frenkie de Jong, or reconsider their midfield balance, one thing remains certain — the debate over Salah’s global recognition and the club’s evolution under Slot is far from over.

The Dutch influence at Anfield is growing, and Babel’s remarks could yet prove prophetic. As Liverpool look to build on their domestic dominance, the idea of uniting two of the Netherlands’ brightest footballing minds — Slot and De Jong — might not be as far-fetched as it seems.

For now, though, Liverpool’s focus will stay on the pitch. Salah continues to shine, Szoboszlai fights to prove his worth, and Arne Slot quietly shapes his team into a new powerhouse. But in the background, Babel’s comments linger — a reminder that in football, even the most successful teams can never stop evolving.