Here’s why Mohamed Salah will be leaving Liverpool this coming summer, if not sooner. This controversial move brings to the close his terrific nine-year career with the club. The Egyptian forward has been a fulcrum for the Anfield club, with his influence playing an integral role in Liverpool’s renaissance over recent years. He’ll still be wearing a Liverpool jersey next season, just not as a player. This decision is a big departure for his coaching career and the long-term direction of the club.
As big as Salah leaving the pitch is becoming the biggest story in football news, it wasn’t the only thing holding the headlines this week. In the quarter finals of the Asian Champions League, Iran’s Tractor FC was beaten by a Saudi Arabian club. This heartbreaking loss knocked Tractor FC out of the tournament, leaving fans, players, and goers heartbroken.
On the women’s side, the story of the season has been the Barcelona women’s team, who have gone 25 games without a loss and counting. They further proved their prowess in the first leg of the Women’s Champions League quarterfinals, crushing Real Madrid 6-2. This clash featured all-star players like Ewa Pajor and Esmee Brugts, with both contributing to Barcelona’s scoreline with one goal apiece.
Barcelona’s night grew even brighter when star midfielder Alexia Putellas turned a Barcelona penalty into their third goal, effectively putting the game out of reach. Caroline Graham Hansen assisted a goal, while Vicky Lopez found the back of the net, contributing to the team’s remarkable performance. It was Real Madrid that struck first through star forward Linda Caicedo. It wasn’t nearly enough to stop Barcelona’s attack from coming at them like a tsunami.
Irene Paredes added a third while Barcelona’s offense was on full display, with Patri Guijarro notching her third assist and fourth point overall. This victory serves as a launchpad for Barcelona ahead of their second leg in the quarterfinals, and an exciting one at that.
All has not been good news for Barcelona as they are suffering through an injury crisis. Aitana Bonmati, a three-time Ballon d’Or winner, has recently been ruled out of action with an injury. Her absence will be felt within the team now that they’re going further into the tournament.
