England star Wayne Rooney reignites debate over Salah’s defensive work

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·10 November 2025

England star Wayne Rooney reignites debate over Salah’s defensive work

United legend urges Salah to "work harder" in big games

England star Wayne Rooney reignites debate over Salah’s defensive work

Video OneFootball

Former Manchester United & England star Wayne Rooney has taken aim at Mohamed Salah following Liverpool’s 3-0 defeat to Manchester City on Sunday.

Speaking on BBC’s Match of the Day, Rooney said Salah must show greater commitment when his team are under pressure.

"He’s been one of the best players in the Premier League over the past six or seven year" Rooney said. "But in the big games, you have to double your effort. He needed to track back and support his full-back, Connor Bradley. Instead Bradley was left completely exposed against Jeremy Doku"

Wayne Rooney, Premier League legend, slams Mohamed Salah after Liverpool’s defeat vs Manchester City
– Senin, 10 November 2025

Rooney added that Salah’s lack of defensive contribution disrupted Liverpool’s balance:

"Ryan Gravenberch had to come across to help Bradley and that created spaces in midfield that City exploited. Salah needed to do more to help prevent that"