WHEN Mo Salah recently peeled off his shirt to reveal that incredible six-pack, my first reaction was — I hope my partner isn’t tuning in.

It’s likely that many men across the country shared the same sentiment. Even at my peak as a player, I didn’t have abs like that. Back in those days, weight training wasn’t a staple of our fitness routine.

4

4

Beyond impressing the ladies, his display of those incredible abs underscores what an extraordinary athlete Salah truly is. He ranks among Liverpool’s all-time greats and continues to be a dominant force on the pitch.

Even at the age of 32, should a three-year contract be presented to him next summer, there’s no sign that his fitness or performance will decline sharply anytime soon.

However, if I were in Arne Slot’s position as his manager at Anfield, I’d be bracing myself for Salah’s exit by the end of this season, regardless of the vague hints he drops about his future.

If no new deal has been finalized by now, it’s clear to me that Salah is likely heading out, despite his claims regarding the club’s absence of a new offer.

Realistically, he could leave for Saudi Arabia next summer, potentially pocketing a £100 million signing bonus alone. That doesn’t even factor in his expected salary. His market valuation is undoubtedly around £80-100 million.

Last summer, Liverpool could have received more than that, but the move to the Saudi Pro League didn’t go through, which caught me off guard.

In today’s Bosman transfer era, much of what Liverpool would have received is probably going to go to Salah instead.

He’s at a decision point. If his choice hinges solely on football, he should stay at Anfield. However, when clubs dangle eye-watering financial incentives, it’s hard to say no.

FOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS

He could have moved last year, but he may have realized that most of the £100 million or even £200 million Liverpool would have gained would ultimately benefit him in just a year, so he chose to remain patient.

If he wins the Premier League title again with Liverpool this season, it would mark a perfect conclusion to his career there.

Jamie Carragher critiques Mo Salah over his ‘selfish’ interview after the Liverpool star claims he’s “more out than in.”

It’s safe to say that this ongoing uncertainty has only reinforced the possibility of his exit.

The carefully orchestrated comments meant to keep fans on their toes are likely designed to prevent any discontent.

He clearly wants to leave the fans on good terms — and I can appreciate that.

Next summer, he’ll be free to negotiate a lucrative contract for a move to Saudi Arabia.

He could potentially sign with any top-tier club globally — maybe even Real Madrid? Yet, would they be able to compete with the financial lure from the Middle East?

Just imagine the celebrity status he would achieve there.

It aligns seamlessly with his Muslim values, and having a player of his caliber would be immensely advantageous for any team.

A remarkable role model for young aspiring professionals

Harry Redknapp

Upcoming players can observe individuals like Salah and Cristiano Ronaldo, noting their training regimens, disciplined diets, avoidance of alcohol, and overall health-conscious lifestyle.

They set an excellent standard for young aspirants hoping to replicate Mo Salah’s achievements.

The landscape has significantly shifted since my early management days at Bournemouth when contracts were around £200 per week, well before the Bosman Ruling.

During my time at West Ham, we sold Rio Ferdinand to Leeds for £18 million — which was a considerable sum back then.

The chairman, Terry Brown, suggested that this might be one of the last significant transfers, as players might soon prefer to let their contracts run out and leave for free.

That was his perspective back then, and while it was understandable, the transfer market has only surged since then.

If Salah departs England next summer, it would certainly bring relief to many men who have been sucking in their bellies since those revealing photos surfaced.

4

BEING FRANK

IF I could impart one piece of wisdom to Frank Lampard as he takes on his managerial role at Coventry, it would be to seek out a seasoned, wise figure to join his coaching staff.

Not me, I’ve had my time, but someone experienced to bounce ideas off of.

When I took charge at Portsmouth, I enlisted Jim Smith. Despite having my own experience at that point, his presence was still immensely beneficial.

Frank faces a daunting challenge at Coventry, and having an elder mentor for guidance would be incredibly helpful. Nonetheless, I applaud him for returning to coaching; he possesses a wealth of knowledge.

His strategic understanding of football is deep, and his standing as a player, coupled with his professionalism, should positively impact the squad.

Finding the right match is crucial. Take Wayne Rooney, for instance, who is currently at Plymouth; he’s a prominent name but the club lacks financial resources.

After narrowly avoiding relegation last season, he’s already up against it. Still, I’ve had discussions with him about football, and he demonstrates potential as a manager.

Securing the right club at the right time is vital.

4

TRACTOR NOISE

WATCHING Ipswich this season suggests they are in a unique position to surprise and evade relegation.

Their energy, playing style, and the vibrant atmosphere at Portman Road, especially during last Sunday’s match against Manchester United, have left a significant mark on me.

Kieran McKenna has curated a skilled lineup, radiating positivity.

I’m rooting for them.