Egypt's national team director Ibrahim Hassan is urging soccer star Mohamed Salah to remain in European leagues rather than join Major League Soccer when he leaves Liverpool. Hassan warns that a move to MLS would diminish Salah's global visibility, comparing it to how Lionel Messi has faded from attention since joining Inter Miami.
A top Egyptian soccer official is advising Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah to steer clear of Major League Soccer when his time with the English club concludes this season, arguing such a move would damage his international profile.
Ibrahim Hassan, who serves as Egypt’s national team director, expressed concerns that the 33-year-old forward would lose global recognition if he chooses MLS over European competition. Salah is weighing his options after a remarkable nine-season run at Liverpool that included two Premier League championships and a Champions League victory.
While MLS Commissioner Don Garber has publicly expressed interest in bringing Salah to American soccer, Hassan believes Europe remains the better choice for maintaining the player’s worldwide status.
“Personally, I would prefer him to stay in Europe,” Hassan shared during an interview with On Sports. “I have heard about offers from Paris Saint‑Germain, Bayern Munich and clubs in the Italian league.”
Hassan drew a pointed comparison to Lionel Messi’s recent career path to emphasize his concerns about MLS visibility.
“A move to the Major League? He would be far too out of the spotlight. You won’t remember Salah any more than I remember (Lionel) Messi now, I don’t even try to watch him,” Hassan explained.
The Argentina captain Messi transitioned to Inter Miami in 2023 following championship runs with Barcelona and Paris Saint‑Germain, shortly after capturing the World Cup. Despite becoming Miami’s leading scorer in franchise history, Hassan suggests the move has reduced Messi’s global presence.
Should European opportunities fail to materialize, Hassan indicated that Saudi Arabia’s professional league would serve as a viable alternative for Salah.
“If he does not receive offers from Europe, then a move to the Saudi league would be a good option, especially with big names such as Cristiano (Ronaldo),” noted Hassan, whose twin brother Hossam Hassan coaches Egypt’s national squad.
Currently dealing with an injury, Salah will be absent from Egypt’s preparation sessions as the team gears up for World Cup competition in North America. The squad recently defeated Saudi Arabia 4-0 in Jeddah and has a scheduled friendly against Spain in Barcelona this Tuesday.
Egypt, which has claimed seven African championships, will compete in World Cup Group G alongside Belgium, New Zealand and Iran when the tournament kicks off June 11 through July 19.