Hamann: Salah's Time at Liverpool is Up – Olise the Ideal Successor

Dietmar Hamann has declared Mohamed Salah's tenure at Liverpool effectively finished, pointing to a concerning drop-off in form that shows little sign of reversing.

The Egyptian winger was imperious last season as Liverpool claimed their 20th league title, but his performances have undergone a dramatic transformation since committing to fresh terms at the end of 2024/25. This season has seen him reduced to a shadow of his former self, delivering precious little impact in most outings and clashing with manager Arne Slot in the process.

Those tensions have inevitably sparked talk of a potential summer exit to the Saudi Pro League – a prospect Hamann believes would suit all parties involved.

"They're all struggling, and the issue with Salah is that over the last decade, he didn't just score and create goals, he created space for others," the former Liverpool midfielder told Boyle Sports. "That's gone now because Salah isn't the force he once was."

The pundit highlighted a particularly damning statistic: Salah's first league goal since November came against Wolves, illustrating a prolonged drought that stretches back before Christmas of the previous campaign. His inability to convert chances from open play has persisted stubbornly and shows no signs of improvement.

"He might get the odd goal, but he certainly doesn't have the influence he used to have," Hamann continued. "His best days are behind him."

While Salah's potential departure looms, Liverpool also requires an upgrade on underperforming Cody Gakpo. The club have been linked with several attacking options, though a report suggests a move for Michael Olise remains unlikely this summer.

Nevertheless, Hamann sees Olise as the ideal candidate to fill Salah's void. The Bayern Munich winger has impressed since arriving in Germany, operating on the right flank and cutting inside – precisely the profile Liverpool need.

"Michael Olise would be the perfect fit because he plays on the right-hand side, comes inside. He's been brilliant since he came to Bayern Munich," Hamann explained. "He's been a bit quiet in the last few weeks, but he's one of those players who decides games. With the Champions League starting again, I think we'll probably see the best of him."

The challenge, however, lies in convincing Bayern to part with their prized asset. Hamann doubts the Bavarian club will sanction a departure, particularly given the absence of a release clause in Olise's contract – a significant obstacle to any potential deal.