Sadio Mané has recently opened up about his relationship with former Liverpool teammate Mohamed Salah, highlighting a specific incident that ultimately strengthened their bond. The moment in question occurred during a Premier League match against Burnley in 2019 when Mané was visibly frustrated after Salah chose to shoot instead of passing to him for a potential goal.
The Senegalese forward, now playing for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, reflected on the incident during an appearance on the "Rio Ferdinand Presents" podcast. He admitted to being "really, really angry" after the game because he felt Salah should have passed him the ball. Mané's frustration was evident as he was seen gesturing angrily on the bench after being substituted, with teammate James Milner attempting to calm him down.
The following day, Salah approached Mané to address the situation. According to Mané, Salah said, "You think I didn't want to pass you? I didn't score. Bobby [Roberto Firmino] scored. But even when I got the ball, I was not thinking or even seeing you to pass. I just got the ball, I want to shoot. But I have nothing against you, and honestly, if I could pass you and I saw you, I would do".
Mané responded by saying, "No, don't worry. It passed, it passed. I was angry because I think you can pass to me more with your quality". He added, "Mo, I can see you want to be a top scorer. I can help you because I don't have this problem. I'll help you more".
Mané believes that this conversation proved to be a turning point in their relationship. "I think since that day, we have become even closer," he said. He explained that he understood Salah's instinct as a striker to want to score goals and that he didn't take the situation personally.
Mané also emphasized that their competitive spirit was a key factor in Liverpool's success. He described himself as a quiet and steady player, while noting that Salah could alternate between selfless link-up play and moments of pure striker instinct. He even joked that "only Bobby (Roberto Firmino) was there to share the ball".
Despite the occasional tensions, Mané maintains that their "rivalry" was ultimately beneficial for Liverpool. He explained that they had a professional relationship built on respect, which helped them to achieve great things together. Together with Firmino, they formed one of Europe's most dangerous attacking trios, winning a Champions League title and a Premier League title for Liverpool.
Mané and Salah shared the pitch 223 times while playing for Liverpool, combining for 35 goals. Their partnership was a vital component of Liverpool's success in recent years, and their story serves as a reminder that even the most competitive relationships can be built on mutual understanding and respect.
