Liverpool Debate Rekindled Over Ronaldo Comparisons

Cristiano Ronaldo has never been warmly embraced at Anfield, for obvious reasons. His years of success at Manchester United and Real Madrid placed him firmly in opposition to Liverpool supporters. Yet even the staunchest Red will concede that Ronaldo stands among football’s elite, and any comparison to him should be viewed as high praise.

That is precisely the territory Mohamed Salah now finds himself in. With Liverpool preparing to face Manchester United this Sunday, Jamie Carragher has reignited the longstanding Liverpool vs Ronaldo debate, arguing that Salah mirrors Ronaldo in one crucial aspect.

Salah’s Mentality Mirrors Ronaldo

Most arguments surrounding Salah and Ronaldo focus on goals and assists. In Premier League terms, Salah has outperformed Ronaldo in both metrics, while the Portuguese forward boasts more silverware. Stylistically, both began as explosive wide forwards who evolved into relentless finishers.

However, Carragher believes there is something deeper at play. Writing in his column, the Liverpool icon argued that Salah’s mindset aligns perfectly with Ronaldo’s elite-level drive.

“Salah has similar traits to Cristiano Ronaldo with regards to his mental toughness and determination to extend his career at the top and keep chasing records and trophies,” Carragher says.

“The more he is doubted, the more he responds where it matters on the pitch.”

Manchester United Clash Offers Ideal Response

According to Carragher, there is no better stage for Salah to answer recent criticism. “If there is one club which will fear negative appraisals of Salah’s form more than any, it is this weekend’s visitors to Anfield, Manchester United,” he says. “Salah’s record versus United is extraordinary.”

Liverpool’s Egyptian forward has often saved his most ruthless performances for United, delivering iconic strikes in front of the Kop that have sealed his legacy.

Statistical Concern Amid Ongoing Greatness

Still, Carragher did not shy away from a worrying trend. Recent form suggests Salah may be struggling to maintain his usual output.

“The most worrying statistics demonstrate Salah’s difficulties go back to last March,” he says. “In his last 21 Liverpool appearances, he has only five goals (two of which were penalties). He had struck 32 in his previous 42 games for his club.

“In this year’s Premier League, his strike against Bournemouth is his only non-penalty goal so far. That has to change to end the latest chatter about whether his best is behind him.”

Salah may be enduring a dip, but great players are defined by their response to adversity. If Carragher is right, the fire that fuelled Ronaldo’s longevity may now be burning in Liverpool’s No. 11. Manchester United, of all teams, may be about to find that out again.