Anfield witnessed the end of an era on Sunday as Liverpool legends Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson played their final matches for the club in an emotional 1-1 draw against Brentford.
Salah lingered in front of the Kop long after the final whistle, soaking in the applause from Liverpool supporters who have celebrated him for nearly a decade. The Egyptian forward leaves Anfield after nine years, 442 appearances and 257 goals, cementing his place among the club’s greatest-ever players.
Robertson also said goodbye after nine trophy-filled seasons that established him as one of Liverpool’s finest defenders in the modern era.
Liverpool supporters paid tribute to both players throughout the afternoon, recognising their role in one of the club’s most successful periods. Their departures mark a major transition for manager Arne Slot, who now faces growing uncertainty over the team’s future direction.
The match itself carried little significance competitively, but it highlighted many of the issues that have troubled Liverpool throughout the season, including wasteful finishing and inconsistent defending.
Curtis Jones gave Liverpool the lead just before the hour mark when he converted Salah’s pass. The assist marked Salah’s 93rd in the Premier League, moving him past Steven Gerrard as Liverpool’s all-time assist leader in the competition.
However, Liverpool failed to protect their advantage as Kevin Schade equalised for Brentford minutes later.
As players completed a lap of appreciation after the game, Slot remained seated alone in the dugout, reflecting on a difficult second campaign in charge. Questions continue to surround the Dutchman’s ability to guide Liverpool through a major rebuilding phase and reconnect with sections of the fanbase.
Several players also face uncertain futures at the club. Ibrahima Konaté, whose contract expires next month, may have played his final game for Liverpool. Jones continues to attract interest from Inter Milan, while Alisson Becker reportedly has admirers in Italy.
Defenders Joe Gomez and midfielders Wataru Endo and Federico Chiesa have also been linked with moves away from Merseyside.
Salah admitted leaving Liverpool had been emotionally difficult.
“We put this club back where it belongs,” Salah told Sky Sports after the match. “It’s tricky to leave Liverpool. … It’s life. I look back and wonder if I would have wanted more than I achieved. Not really. We won it all. We see the love from the fans, and this is the most important thing for me.
“I will be far away from here. I will be emotional every time. I hope the team stays in the position, fighting for everything.”
Liverpool fans later sang Bob Marley’s “Three Little Birds” around Anfield as the club prepared to move into a new chapter without two of its modern icons.
