Mohamed Salah, captain of the Egyptian national team and star of Liverpool FC, revealed the behind-the-scenes of his relationship with his former teammate Sadio Mane during their time together at the Reds, confirming that there was tension on the pitch at times, but the relationship remained professional and respectful.

Salah said: "Yes, there was tension with Sadio Mane, but we were professionals until the end. I don't think this tension affected the team; it's natural for every player to want to score goals and achieve success, and Mane is a fierce competitor, and I understand that well."

When talking about the nature of their relationship off the pitch, he clarified: "We weren't very close, but there was always mutual respect between us. There were no personal issues; we just competed against each other in a professional context."

Regarding the repeated accusations of him being selfish on the pitch, which some believe caused tension with Mane, Salah responded: "I don't care what is said; people are free to believe what they want, but the truth is that I created many key passes for him."

He added: "The numbers are there, but sensational headlines are more appealing than facts. I know how things go, but what matters to me is that I was doing my part and my conscience is clear."

Salah concluded his statements by emphasizing his respect for constructive criticism, saying: "As long as the criticisms remain within the bounds of respect, I have no problem with that, but that doesn’t always mean they are correct. I know well what I have contributed to the team."