'Frustrated': Luis Garcia doubles down on Mo Salah Ballon d'Or claim after what happened against Lille

Today at 06:00 AM

Mohamed Salah once again for his name on the scoresheet for Liverpool as they secured a 2-1 UEFA Champions League win against Lille.

The Egyptian has been in flying form under Arne Slot this season and broke the deadlock with a fantastic chip from just outside the penalty area in the first half.

Jonathan David equalised for Lille, but Harvey Elliott came off the bench and scored what turned out to be the winning goal for the Reds as his effort landed up in the back of the net via a deflection.

Salah was in the thick of the action and got his name on the scoresheet again as Liverpool confirmed their place in the Round of 16 of the competition.

And Luis Garcia has shared what he really thinks about the Egyptian’s Ballon d’Or hopes this year.

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah’s Ballon d’Or hopes talked up

Salah was in the thick of the action against Lille as he started in attack alongside Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz.

After scoring in the first half, he did, however, fluff another glorious effort as he did all the hard work to control a difficult long ball but somehow managed to miss the target.

However, it was a happy outing for the Egyptian and his team as he spearheaded his side to three points while also making it 50 goals in Europe for Liverpool.

Speaking after the game, Garcia seemed to suggest Salah is still underrated as his name is rarely mentioned when people talk about the Ballon d’Or.

“To be honest, we've been talking a lot about players like Vinicius Jr and Lamine Yamal – about the players who can win the Ballon d'Or,” said Garcia on Prime Video after the game.

“I get frustrated because Mo Salah is not even in the picture because his numbers are there.

“If he manages to get two trophies, he should be at least top three. He doesn't like the focus or being in the spotlight, he enjoys playing.”

Salah’s stats this season

Earlier this season, Garcia tipped Salah to be in the running for the Ballon d’Or and has appeared to double down on his claims.

And judging by the Egyptian’s current form, it’s hard to argue against him as he has been the most productive player in world football this season.

Salah’s contract runs out this summer and Liverpool need to do everything it takes to tie hin down for the long haul as a player like him is impossible to replace in the transfer market.