Liverpool’s season ends on a high with Champions League qualification
In a bittersweet finale at Anfield, Mohamed Salah delivered a masterclass performance in his last game for Liverpool, setting up a crucial goal before tears welled up as he bid farewell to the club. The Egyptian forward, who leaves as the club’s all-time top assist provider in the Premier League, played a pivotal role in securing a 1-1 draw against Brentford that clinched Liverpool’s Champions League qualification on the final day of the season.
Despite speculation over his future, Salah started on the right wing—the position he has occupied since joining from Roma in 2017. His 93rd assist for the Reds came from a perfectly curled cross that Curtis Jones converted just before halftime, though Brentford equalized late through Kevin Schade’s header. The point was enough to secure fifth place and Champions League football next season.
Player ratings: how Liverpool’s stars performed in their final outing
Goalkeepers and defenders
- Alisson Becker (6/10): Made a crucial save to deny Schade before halftime but could do nothing about the equalizer. His last appearance in a Liverpool shirt may have been his most emotional yet.
- Curtis Jones (7/10): Adapted seamlessly to an unfamiliar right-back role, contributing to Liverpool’s best attacking spells. His perfectly timed run to finish Salah’s cross was a highlight, though his unlucky deflection allowed Brentford’s equalizer.
- Ibrahima Konaté (5/10): Composed in the air and accurate with his passing, but his rash challenge earned him a yellow card. His contract is nearing expiration, adding pressure to his future at the club.
- Virgil van Dijk (6/10): Dominant as ever, but frustrated once again as Liverpool failed to keep a clean sheet. His leadership remains unmatched, even in a season of mixed fortunes.
- Andy Robertson (6/10): Preferred over Kerkez for his final match, he showed resilience but was outmuscled by Schade for the equalizer. Like Salah, he received a standing ovation from the Anfield faithful.
Midfielders
- Ryan Gravenberch (7/10): One of Liverpool’s most energetic performers, he nearly opened the scoring with a powerful long-range effort. His industry in midfield was vital, though his involvement in a late tackle earned him a yellow card.
- Alexis Mac Allister (5/10): Worked tirelessly but lacked end product. His frustration boiled over with a reckless tackle in stoppage time.
- Dominik Szoboszlai (7/10): Consistently mobile and creative, he fashioned a chance for Gakpo with a sublime cross and set up another for Wirtz. Despite not being at his best, he remains Liverpool’s standout midfielder this season.
Forwards
- Mohamed Salah (8/10): Played with determination, though his free-kick rattled the post when Kelleher was already beaten. His assist for Jones broke Steven Gerrard’s club record for Premier League assists, capping his Liverpool career in style.
- Cody Gakpo (6/10): Created multiple chances, including the pass that led to Salah’s assist. His headed attempt was deflected, but his link-up play was a constant threat.
- Rio Ngumoha (7/10): The youngster showed fearless intent, nearly scoring with a curling effort that flashed past the post. His energy and directness were a bright spot in Liverpool’s attack.
Substitutes and manager
- Florian Wirtz (6/10): Returned in fine form but was denied a late winner by a brilliant Kelleher save. His cameo suggested he could be a key player next season.
- Jeremie Frimpong (5/10): Replaced Salah on the wing but struggled to influence the game.
- Arne Slot (5/10): Made the bold choice to start Salah despite recent criticism, reaping the reward of a crucial assist. However, defensive frailties remain a major concern as he looks to rebuild the squad.