Former Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge has thrown his support behind Mohamed Salah, insisting that the Egyptian forward deserves to win the 2025 Ballon d’Or. Sturridge believes Salah’s consistent performances and immense impact at Liverpool make him a top contender for football’s most prestigious individual award this year.
The former England international expressed his admiration for Salah’s brilliance after Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Manchester City, a crucial result that further cemented the Reds’ title ambitions. Salah was instrumental in the win at the Etihad Stadium, scoring one goal and providing an assist as Liverpool outclassed the defending champions. His display was yet another testament to his world-class ability and reliability in big matches.
Salah’s remarkable form this season has placed him among the elite once again. With 30 goals and 21 assists in 38 club appearances across all competitions, the Egyptian forward has been a driving force for Liverpool. His consistent performances over the years have solidified his reputation as one of the best players in the world, yet his name is often overlooked in the Ballon d’Or discussions.
Speaking on Sky Sports after Liverpool’s win, Sturridge did not hold back in his praise for his former teammate. “What Mohamed Salah is doing for Liverpool season in and season out is ridiculous, it’s mind-blowing,” he said. “When he came to the club, I don’t think anyone thought that he would even be close to a guy that would score 25 goals a season or 20 goals a season. The consistency he has shown is incredible.”
The former Chelsea and Manchester City forward emphasized that Salah’s contributions to Liverpool over the years warrant serious recognition. “If we are not linking him to the Ballon d’Or, then it is getting out of hand. We have to start putting him in that conversation. He has not even been in the top three vote yet,” Sturridge added.
Despite his extraordinary numbers and immense influence on the pitch, Salah has yet to break into the Ballon d’Or’s final top three. His best finish came in 2018 when he placed sixth, followed by fifth in 2019, seventh in 2021, fifth again in 2022, and a disappointing 11th place in 2023. Last year, he was not even nominated, sparking debates about whether his impact is being undervalued on the global stage.
Salah’s ability to deliver in crucial moments has made him an irreplaceable figure at Liverpool. Since joining the club from AS Roma in 2017, he has redefined expectations, setting new records and leading the Reds to major titles, including the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, FA Cup, and Club World Cup. His consistency, goal-scoring prowess, and all-around influence make him one of the greatest players to ever wear a Liverpool shirt.
However, with his contract set to expire in June, speculation about his future remains a talking point. While Liverpool fans hope he extends his stay at Anfield, there are growing concerns about potential offers from clubs in Saudi Arabia and other European giants. Regardless of where he plays next season, Salah’s legacy at Liverpool is already cemented, and his performances this season prove that he is still at the peak of his powers.
Sturridge, who shared the pitch with Salah 30 times during his spell at Liverpool, understands firsthand what makes the Egyptian a special talent. The duo played together during the 2017-18 season when Salah announced himself to the world with a record-breaking 44-goal campaign. Since then, Salah has maintained a world-class level, consistently delivering goals and assists for Liverpool while breaking records along the way.
His statistics this season further underline his importance. With an average of a goal or assist every game, Salah has been one of the most productive forwards in world football. His ability to adapt to different tactical systems and play both as a winger and a central forward has made him indispensable to Liverpool’s attack.
Despite often being overshadowed by players like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and now Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland, Salah has proven time and again that he belongs in the same conversation. His contributions extend beyond just goal-scoring; his leadership, work ethic, and influence on and off the pitch have made him a true icon in world football.
The debate over the 2025 Ballon d’Or will be a hot topic as the season progresses, with players like Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Haaland also in contention. However, Salah’s numbers and influence make a compelling case for his inclusion in the conversation. Sturridge’s call for recognition resonates with many who believe the Egyptian deserves more respect on the global stage.
Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp has also been vocal about Salah’s importance to the team. In a recent interview, Klopp praised Salah’s dedication and professionalism, stating, “Mo is a player who thrives under pressure. He always delivers in the biggest games, and that is the mark of a true world-class player.”
Klopp’s words highlight Salah’s impact beyond just statistics. His presence alone forces opponents to adjust their defensive strategies, often doubling up on him in an attempt to limit his influence. Yet, season after season, he continues to find ways to break through and make decisive contributions.
With Liverpool competing for major honors this season, Salah has a chance to further strengthen his Ballon d’Or case. If he continues his current form and leads the Reds to more silverware, it will be difficult for the footballing world to ignore his greatness. A strong finish to the season, particularly in the Champions League and Premier League, could be the final push he needs to earn widespread recognition as a legitimate contender for the award.
As the football world debates who deserves the 2025 Ballon d’Or, Salah’s case cannot be overlooked. His consistency, leadership, and ability to rise to the occasion make him one of the most valuable players in the game today. Whether or not he finally secures the prestigious award, his legacy is already secured as one of the best players of his generation.
For now, Salah remains focused on helping Liverpool achieve success, but with each match, he continues to prove why he belongs among football’s elite. If there is justice in the Ballon d’Or voting, 2025 could finally be the year Salah gets the recognition he truly deserves.
