Ashraf AboArafe analyzy
Despite his consistent brilliance across European pitches and his exceptional performances over consecutive seasons, Egyptian star Mohamed Salah remains absent from the winners’ list of global football awards such as FIFA’s The Best and the Ballon d’Or. This ongoing oversight raises serious questions about selection standards and global representation in such prestigious accolades.
1. The Media and Political Power of Traditional Football Nations
European and South American giants dominate the headlines and voting platforms, making it harder for players like Salah—who operate outside these dominant narratives—to receive due recognition, even when their statistics and impact clearly stand out.
2. Lack of International Titles with the National Team
Though Salah has led Egypt to the Africa Cup of Nations final and represented his country at the World Cup, the absence of major international trophies continues to weigh against him in the eyes of global voters, especially when compared to players with national team honors.
3. Salah Wins 2025 Premier League Player of the Year
In a powerful reminder of his world-class status, Salah was named the 2024/25 Premier League Player of the Year, awarded by the Football Writers’ Association (FWA). This prestigious recognition affirms his enduring form and crucial role in Liverpool’s domestic success.
4. Award Bias Toward European and Global Tournament Winners
The top individual awards are often tied to winners of the Champions League or World Cup. Despite Salah’s standout performances in the Premier League and Europe, the lack of team silverware during award years has pushed him out of the spotlight, while others win based on collective success more than personal excellence.
5. The Geographic and Cultural Challenge
Salah is not just an elite athlete—he represents a cultural icon from the Arab and Muslim world. Yet the global football establishment still shows signs of underrepresentation for players from outside traditional power centers, which may quietly contribute to his continued absence from the top honors.
Season after season, Mohamed Salah continues to prove his worth, whether through goals, leadership, or influence on and off the pitch. The question remains:
Is it finally time for global football to recognize one of the finest players of his generation?
