
The Athletic FC Tactics Podcast Has Salah actually declined?
Dec 11, 2025
This week, Michael Cox, a renowned football tactics writer, joins Mark Carey, a data journalist, and Liam Tharme, a tactics analyst, to delve into the dynamics of player power, focusing on Mohamed Salah. They discuss whether managers should adapt their strategies for star players and the importance of squad versatility. The panel examines Salah's role at Liverpool, analyzing tactical adaptations that protect him and the effects of opponents targeting his defensive efforts. They also debate if Salah's perceived decline is due to age or tactical shifts.
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Salah's Public Case For Defensive Rest
- Mohamed Salah said: "As long as you rest me defensively, I will provide offensively."
- Michael Bailey used this quote to frame Liverpool's tactical accommodation of Salah.
How Liverpool Hid Salah's Defensive Gaps
- Liverpool protected Salah last season via midfield cover and right-back jumping tactics.
- Mark Carey explains Gravenberch and a roaming number 10 helped mitigate Salah's defensive gaps.
Availability Amplified Salah's Output
- Keeping Salah on the pitch last season maximised his attacking output and minutes played.
- Michael Cox notes Salah started almost every game, which amplified his overall contribution.


