Mohamed Salah shares Christmas photo with family as Liverpool star hit with backlash

Liverpool winger Mohamed Salah has once again shared a heartwarming Christmas photo with his family, sparking a flurry of reactions.

Despite being a devout Muslim, the Premier League’s top goalscorer annually shares a festive picture with his wife and two daughters – this year in matching pyjamas – which sometimes draws criticism.

However, Salah sees it as a sign of respect and doesn’t let negativity influence his decision. He and his wife Magi have raised their daughters Makka, 10, and Kayan, four, in a predominantly Christian country, and he wants them to enjoy Christmas while learning about other religions.

The family’s Christmas Day post showed them around a Christmas tree with a giant gingerbread man, all appearing to have a wonderful time. The post was liked by several current and former Liverpool stars including Jordan Henderson, Dejan Lovren, Fabinho, Kostas Tsimikas, Harvey Elliott, Alexis Mac Allister and Cody Gakpo.

However, comments sections of both Instagram and Twitter (now X) posts were quickly flooded with a mix of both positive and negative responses.

A theory also emerged suggesting that both Liverpool, currently leading the Premier League and Champions League tables, and Salah seem to experience a dip in form shortly after the Egyptian shares his annual festive message.

One optimistic Arsenal supporter posted on X: “Liverpool downfall incoming.” And a Manchester City fan humorously added: “He’s done it again! The title race is on!” Nevertheless, these claims seem unfounded.

For instance, Salah shared a festive photo with his loved ones on Christmas Day 2019, and later that season, Liverpool claimed the Premier League title.

Other reactions aimed at Salah included messages of disappointment, with one person saying: “At this point I am just disappointed in you.” Another inquired: “Who is forcing you to do this?”

In defence of Salah, one supporter wrote: “Raising his children to respect other cultures traditions and giving them special memories to remember when they’re adults, he’s an inspiration to all.”

Amidst the backdrop of contract negotiations at Liverpool, fans are on tenterhooks for news regarding the future of their 32-year-old top scorer, as well as captain Virgil van Dijk and right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold, with all three players’ contracts drawing to a close this season.

Discussions have begun with the key trio, with the club reportedly feeling positive about securing deals, especially for Salah and Van Dijk.

Following his two-goal performance in the thrilling 6-3 win over Tottenham before Christmas, Salah is set to take to the pitch again as Liverpool host Leicester City at Anfield on Boxing Day.