Liverpool star Mohamed Salah makes shock Newcastle United admission

Mohamed Salah has opened up about his unforgettable introduction to English football, recalling how his Premier League debut against Newcastle United left him questioning his ability to adapt to the physical demands of the league.

The Egyptian forward, who joined Chelsea from Basel in January 2014, made his first appearance in England’s top flight as a substitute in a match against the Magpies.

Despite Chelsea being 3-0 up when Salah entered the fray, the experience was far from comfortable for the young winger. Years later, Salah still vividly remembers the rough welcome he received from Newcastle’s players, an encounter that left a lasting impression on him.

“It was very intense,” Salah told Optus Sport ahead of Liverpool’s Carabao Cup final clash with Newcastle. “They just go for everything. I remember the first game I played was against Newcastle. I got tackled on the sideline like, ‘Boom,’ and I thought, ‘How am I going to survive here? I need to go to the gym.’”

That moment of physicality served as a wake-up call for Salah, who has since transformed into one of the most formidable forwards in world football. Over the years, he has not only bulked up but also developed the strength and resilience needed to thrive in the Premier League.

Since joining Liverpool in 2017, Salah has become a constant thorn in Newcastle’s side, tormenting the Magpies with his pace, skill, and clinical finishing. In 16 appearances against Newcastle, Salah has been directly involved in 18 goals, scoring 11 times and providing seven assists.

His remarkable record against the Magpies underscores his importance to Liverpool and highlights the challenge Newcastle will face in trying to contain him in the Carabao Cup final. Keeping Salah quiet will be crucial to Newcastle’s hopes of ending their 70-year wait for a major trophy, but it is a task easier said than done.

However, Eddie Howe, Newcastle’s manager, knows that focusing solely on Salah would be a mistake. While the Egyptian superstar is undoubtedly Liverpool’s most dangerous attacking threat, the Reds boast a wealth of talent across their squad.

Players like Darwin Núñez, Cody Gakpo, and Diogo Jota have all proven their ability to step up and deliver in crucial moments. Howe will need to devise a tactical plan that not only neutralizes Salah but also addresses the broader threat posed by Liverpool’s attacking unit.

For Salah, the Carabao Cup final represents another opportunity to add to his already impressive legacy at Liverpool. Since arriving at Anfield, he has been instrumental in the club’s success, helping them win the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, and League Cup.

His ability to perform on the biggest stages has made him a fan favorite and a key figure in Jurgen Klopp’s side. As Liverpool prepare to face Newcastle at Wembley, Salah will be determined to once again prove his worth and lead his team to victory.

Newcastle, on the other hand, will be eager to make history by lifting their first major trophy since 1955. The Magpies have enjoyed a resurgence under Howe’s leadership, with their strong defensive organization and attacking flair earning them a place in the final.

While Salah’s presence looms large, Newcastle’s players will be focused on executing their game plan and seizing the opportunity to create a memorable moment for their fans.

As the two teams prepare to lock horns at Wembley, the spotlight will inevitably fall on Salah, whose journey from a nervous debutant to a Premier League icon serves as a testament to his hard work and determination.

For Newcastle, the challenge will be to overcome not just Salah but the collective strength of a Liverpool side that has consistently delivered on the big stage. The stage is set for a thrilling encounter, with both teams aiming to etch their names into the history books.