SINGAPORE – The magic from Mohamed Salah’s left boot is something that Liverpool fans – and perhaps even rival supporters in the English Premier League – have grown accustomed to since he arrived at Anfield in 2017.

But all good things must come to an end, with the “Pharaoh”, who is third on the Reds’ all-time top-scorer list with 255 goals, announcing on March 24 that he will leave the club at the end of the season.

While former Liverpool defender John Arne Riise acknowledged Salah’s contributions to a trophy-laden spell, the Norwegian believes the time had come to part ways as the 33-year-old has not been at his best.

“It was time for him to go,” Riise told The Straits Times on March 27 on the sidelines of the Singapore Cricket Club (SCC) Soccer 7s at the Padang.

“Obviously, he’s been unbelievable for the football club for so many years, but I could see it last season as well, that he wasn’t up to his top, top level, and especially this season.

“This is what happens when you’re arguing for (a new) contract, and if they end up signing a new contract... expectation is high again, and you don’t perform, you get criticised.”

Riise, 45, was referring to Salah’s two-year contract extension in April 2025 which came after telling reporters in November 2024 that he was “more out than in”.

In December 2025, there was also an uncharacteristic outburst as Salah accused the club of throwing him “under the bus” and painted a bleak picture of his relationship with manager Arne Slot after being benched for three games in a row.

That matter was eventually resolved and is believed to be not linked to his decision to leave. While some have questioned the timing of the announcement, Riise believes it will help both player and club.

“I like the decision and the way they’ve done because now we won’t have any speculation,” said Riise, who like Salah, play...