Gerrard Shuts Down Arsenal Speculation as Salah's Next Move Becomes Hot Topic

Steven Gerrard has firmly dismissed suggestions that Mohamed Salah could make a surprise switch to a Premier League rival, pushing back against Gary Neville's theory during a recent podcast discussion about the Liverpool star's next chapter.

The Egyptian's departure from Anfield was confirmed last month, ending a remarkable spell in which he netted 255 goals across 435 appearances. Despite signing a fresh two-year deal the previous summer, Salah negotiated his exit with a year remaining on his contract, securing a free transfer.

While speculation has swirled around potential moves to Saudi Arabia and MLS, Neville floated the possibility of Salah rocking the boat by joining either Chelsea or Arsenal. Gerrard wasn't having it.

"I don't think he will do that," the former Rangers manager declared on the Stick to Football podcast. "I wouldn't be surprised if it's another big club somewhere else, but I don't think he would move to a rival."

Instead, Gerrard backed the Saudi Pro League as the most likely destination, citing Salah's profile and standing in the region. "I've lived over there and knowing how he's thought of over there, I think it will be Saudi," he explained. "There's some good players in the top-end out there and he would be playing with some good players, some very good players."

The former Liverpool icon did acknowledge Italy as a possibility, though he'd stake his money on the Middle East. "It wouldn't shock me if he moved to Italy but if I had to put money on it I would go with Saudi."

Neville's argument centred on Salah's ego and his need to perform at clubs befitting his brand. "These players have egos that means they have to play at clubs that suit their brand and way of thinking," the pundit suggested, ruling out Barcelona, Real Madrid, and PSG as realistic options.

Jamie Carragher, however, tipped a return to Serie A as the more fitting next step. He saw Milan or Inter as plausible homes where Salah could maintain his elite status for another couple of years before potentially heading east.

"I think he thinks he's still one of the best players in the world," Carragher said. "And that's almost retiring going over there in my eyes. I think he could do another two or three years somewhere and then go there."

The debate underscores Salah's mentality—one shaped by his belief in his own quality. Gerrard pointed to his struggles with Liverpool's recent tactical setup as evidence. "That's why the fallout came apart, he was probably struggling with the transition of not starting every game. But I think that's his mentality," Gerrard reflected.