Can Liverpool Thrive Without Salah? A Surprising Champions League Victory Sparks Debate
In a thrilling Champions League encounter on December 9, 2025, Liverpool secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Inter Milan at the San Siro, proving they can still deliver even without their star player, Mohamed Salah. But here's where it gets controversial: Was this win a testament to the team's resilience, or simply a fluke against an Inter side that dominated possession but lacked clinical finishing? Let’s dive into the details.
With Salah left at home following a heated dispute with head coach Arne Slot—stemming from his public criticism of the club after a draw at Leeds—Liverpool faced a significant challenge. Stepping into the spotlight was Dominik Szoboszlai, who calmly converted an 88th-minute penalty, sealing the win. This moment not only highlighted Szoboszlai’s composure but also hinted at a potential shift in the team’s dynamics. And this is the part most people miss: While Salah’s absence was noticeable, the victory showcased Liverpool’s ability to adapt under pressure, a quality that has been sorely missing in an otherwise inconsistent season.
Salah’s absence wasn’t the only hurdle for Liverpool. Injuries to Cody Gakpo and Federico Chiesa forced Slot to rely on Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike, a £200 million duo that struggled to make an impact. Despite their hefty price tags, the pair lacked cohesion and failed to capitalize on key opportunities. For instance, Ekitike’s decision to favor his right foot in a Salah-like position resulted in a weak shot easily saved by Yann Sommer. Is it fair to expect instant chemistry from such high-profile signings, or does this highlight deeper issues in Liverpool’s squad?
The game also exposed Liverpool’s reliance on Salah’s goal-scoring prowess. With Salah sidelined, Virgil van Dijk became the team’s next highest scorer in the Champions League, albeit with a modest five goals. However, players like Curtis Jones and Ryan Gravenberch stepped up, testing Sommer with their midfield creativity. Meanwhile, Ibrahima Konaté, often criticized for his errors, nearly scored from an offside position, only for VAR to disallow the goal after a lengthy review.
Inter Milan, unbeaten at home in Europe for 18 matches, pushed hard in the second half. Nicolò Barella’s free kick and Lautaro Martínez’s header forced Alisson Becker into crucial saves. Yet, it was Liverpool’s tactical discipline and late penalty that decided the outcome. But here’s the question: Did Inter simply have an off night, or did Liverpool’s defensive resilience genuinely outshine their opponents?
As the final whistle blew, Liverpool fans chanted Slot’s name, celebrating a win that not only boosted their chances of avoiding the play-offs but also hinted at a potential turning point in their season. However, the debate remains: Can Liverpool sustain this level of performance without Salah, or was this victory an anomaly? What do you think? Is Liverpool’s future brighter with or without Salah? Share your thoughts in the comments!
