Scholes hits out at ‘ugly’ Liverpool star Salah as ‘the worst, best footballer in the world’

Mohamed Salah's form slump and recent benching suggest punters might favour bets like "Salah to fail to score" or Liverpool win with Salah not scoring. Expect shorter-term market moves: back Wirtz or other scorers as starters, or consider Liverpool win with Salah under 0.5 goals at boosted odds.

Mohamed Salah dropped as Liverpool face scrutiny over form

Mohamed Salah has been left out of Liverpool’s starting XI as questions mount over a dramatic dip in form. The 33-year-old, a driving force in last season’s title run, was omitted for the trip to Frankfurt after Liverpool’s defeat to Manchester United and came on only in the final 15 minutes.

Coach’s dilemma: goals dictate selection

With Salah struggling to replicate his previous output, the manager has signalled that goals will decide selection. Analysts and former players have been frank about the Egyptian’s struggles, noting that if the goals dry up, substitution from the XI becomes inevitable.

Key moments: cameo and a missed opportunity

Salah’s brief substitute appearance did little to reverse scrutiny. Late in the match he opted to shoot from a tight angle instead of squaring for team-mate Florian Wirtz, who went on to score his first Liverpool goal — a moment that underlined Salah’s uncertainty in the side.

Veteran criticism: “best, worst footballer”

Paul Scholes described Salah as at times the “best, worst footballer in the world,” pointing to awkward touches and inefficient finishing. Ian Wright added that the departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid has deprived Salah of early, precise service that used to free him in dangerous phases, leaving him “looking like a passenger” at times.

Player reaction and squad dynamic

Salah’s reaction to being dropped — reportedly leaving the pitch in a strop and making changes to his social profiles — highlights the tension between individual pride and squad decisions. Team harmony and response to rotation will be key for the manager as he balances form, fitness and tactics.

Where this leaves Liverpool tactically

Liverpool must find alternative sources of creativity and finishing while Salah searches for form. Emerging scorers and midfielders offering quicker, earlier service will be relied upon; the team’s structure may shift to reduce dependence on Salah’s previous goal output.

Betting implications and market moves

Punters should note short-term market reactions: favour bets like “Salah to score — No” or Liverpool to win with other scorers. Markets may shorten on new starters such as Wirtz or Gakpo to score. Longer-term markets on Salah’s season totals could be attractive if odds don’t yet reflect his current drought.

Outlook

Salah remains a proven match-winner, but this period will test his adaptability. The manager’s willingness to bench him sends a clear message: form and effectiveness, not reputation, will determine playing time. Expect continued scrutiny until goals return.

Scholes has hit out at "ugly" footballer Salah amid his poor form for Liverpool this season, claiming 'he does some of the worst stuff you'll see from a centre-forward.'

Football365