Egypt and Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah has revealed a change of “mindset” is the only thing that stands in the way of more Arab superstars being produced.
Salah, 25, is just about to complete a sensational debut campaign on Merseyside that featured more than 40 goals, plus being named Professional Footballers’ Association Players’ Player of the Year. His supreme achievements make him standalone in regards to footballers born in Arab countries.
Speaking to ON ENT, the forward declared there is no lack of “exceptional talent” among his compatriots – the only difference was in their approach and commitment.
“Here, the difference is just here,” said Salah, while pointing to his head.
“The mindset, this is the only difference I can see. Talent is the same.
“For example, Brazilian players are born talented. But the point is how they adapt to their new environment.
“Our players already have the exceptional talent. When I was young, I was not the most-talented player of my generation.
“At the age of 14 and 15, then 16 and 17. Yet none of them are still around. I am not happy to say this, but it’s a fact.
“The [non-North] Africans are able to adapt faster than us. They also speak foreign languages, they are ready to sacrifice.”
Salah’s drive has already taken him to Switzerland’s Basel, England’s Chelsea, plus Fiorentina and Roma from Italy.
He will now be carrying the hopes of more than 400 million inhabitants of the Arab world when he runs out in May 26’s Champions League final against Real Madrid.
Salah hoped his success will spark desire among his kin’s next generation.
He said: “I always remember the 10-year-old kid who was watching the Champions League from home. You see how people in Egypt view these things, this is what makes me feel something different.
“People are watching me like I watched other superstars on TV a long time ago.
“Just imagine there are kids just like you were, but they have a superstar from their own country. They feel they can reach that high.
“That is the most-pleasing thing for me.”