Liverpool star Mohamed Salah has his sights firmly set on winning this year’s Africa Cup of Nations, expressing his desire to be crowned champion.
Salah, in exceptional form, currently shares the top scorer position in the Premier League with 14 goals and holds the record for the most assists, with 8, this season.
Entering the tournament with high expectations, Salah aims to replicate his outstanding form in Ivory Coast, where Egypt will strive to clinch the AFCON title for the first time since their victory in 2010. Despite being involved in two previous finals, both of which ended in defeat, including the last edition against Senegal, Salah remains determined.
Following his standout performance in Liverpool’s 4-2 victory over Newcastle United on Monday, Salah stated, “I want to win the competition, and I would love it. Without me, I’m sure the players can win the games. We have fantastic players… anyone can play in my position and do what I’m doing; everyone just needs to feel free!”
The Pharaohs will compete against Ghana, Cape Verde, and Mozambique in the group stage, with coach Rui Vitoria remaining cautious about his team’s prospects.
“We will treat each game as a final,” he said.
Egypt are scheduled to face Tanzania in a pre-tournament friendly on January 7. Salah and Elneny could potentially miss up to four Premier League games if the North Africans reach the Afcon final on February 11.