Sunday Oliseh tells Henry to back off over criticism of Salah amid Liverpool fallout
Former Super Eagles coach Sunday Oliseh has pushed back against Thierry Henry’s criticism of Mohamed Salah, backing the Liverpool forward after his explosive comments following the 3-3 draw with Leeds United.
Salah had accused Liverpool of “throwing him under the bus,” hinting at a breakdown in his relationship with head coach Arne Slot.
His subsequent omission from the Champions League win over Inter Milan intensified speculation around his future.
Oliseh defends Salah over Henry’s comments – Getty image
Henry’s critique sparks debate
Thierry Henry argued that Salah mishandled the situation by going public, suggesting the Egyptian should have addressed the issue internally.
He cited his own Barcelona experience, saying he once accepted being dropped without controversy.
Oliseh rejects the comparison
Oliseh dismissed Henry’s comments as inaccurate, insisting the contexts are worlds apart.
In a post on X, he emphasized Salah’s decade-long talisman status at Liverpool, likening it to Messi’s central role at Barcelona.
By contrast, he said Henry was brought in to support Messi, Eto’o and Iniesta, not to lead the team.
The Nigerian also highlighted Salah’s unparalleled stature in Egypt, stating Henry “was miles away” from enjoying that level of national adoration in France.
Salah still wrong to go public, Oliseh says
Despite defending Salah, Oliseh conceded the forward should not have voiced his frustrations publicly. Still, he maintained Salah has every right to feel unhappy about his current situation.
What comes next for Salah
Salah will hope to return to the squad for this weekend’s home clash with Brighton before linking up with Egypt for the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
