Micah Richards has provided an intriguing argument for why Mohamed Salah’s performance at Liverpool has suffered recently, emphasising the Egyptian’s current Ramadan fast. The forward has been in outstanding form at Anfield in what is currently the last year of his contract with the Reds.
Salah became a strong contender for this year’s Ballon d’Or award after contributing 54 goals in just 43 games for Arne Slot’s team this season across all competitions. He guided Liverpool to the Premier League’s top spot, and it appeared like they would win the title for the second time in history.
However, his form has significantly declined in recent weeks. Liverpool has played in some of their most important games this season over the past two weeks, including the Carabao Cup final against Newcastle United and the Champions League round of 16 matchup against Paris Saint-Germain. Regretfully for the Egyptian and his team, he was unable to contribute to any of the games, as the Reds lost the latter and were eliminated from the former.
Richards has now hinted that his difficulties may have been influenced by his religious beliefs.
Richards Suggested Ramadan Might Have Had an Impact
Salah has been fasting since the beginning of the month
Muslims fast throughout Ramadan every year, which means they frequently go for extended periods of time without eating in March. Richards believes that Salah’s performances for Liverpool may have suffered as a result of their ban on eating between sunrise and sundown. When the forward’s difficulties were brought up on the Rest is Football podcast, the former Manchester City player responded as follows:
Remember that Salah is now fasting throughout Ramadan. He will naturally not have the same amount of energy as when he is able to eat. It’s amazing that he’s actually playing at that level on that pitch now. You know, just to be there.”
Although Salah is one of many professional football players who fast throughout Ramadan, few are playing at the same level of intensity as he has for Liverpool during the 2024–2025 season. This season may be his last at Anfield since his contract is currently scheduled to expire in the summer.
