Is Liverpool’s Salah–Van Dijk Era Ending

Is a golden chapter at Anfield approaching its conclusion? As Liverpool prepare for another season of transition, the familiar image of the “All Reds” that has dominated English and European football in recent years may soon change. Former Liverpool striker Stan Collymore has added fresh fuel to the debate, suggesting that next summer could mark the departure of two of the club’s most influential modern figures: Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk.

The speculation is striking, given that both players signed contract extensions only last season, tying them to Liverpool until 2027. On paper, those deals appeared to signal long-term stability. Yet footballing realities often move faster than contracts, and with new head coach Arne Slot shaping his own vision, questions are being raised about how central these experienced stars remain to Liverpool’s future plans.

Slot’s arrival has coincided with a clear shift in strategy. The club have invested heavily in younger talent, signalling an emphasis on long-term rebuilding rather than short-term continuity. Last season alone, Liverpool spent close to €260 million on marquee signings, including Swedish striker Alexander Isak and German playmaker Florian Wirtz. Both were recruited at significant cost and with the expectation that they would become the pillars of a new-look Liverpool. Injuries and inconsistent form have slowed their immediate impact, but Collymore believes the club’s direction is unmistakable.

Speaking to Goal, Collymore argued that if Slot truly intends to launch “Liverpool 2.0”, a major decision will be unavoidable. “To make room for the new generation, at least one of Salah or Van Dijk will have to move on,” he said. “That is the brutal reality of elite football.”

Salah’s situation is particularly delicate. A modern Liverpool icon, his achievements place him alongside legends such as Kenny Dalglish, Ian Rush and Steven Gerrard. However, Collymore suggests that the growing excitement surrounding younger arrivals may leave a global superstar like Salah feeling marginalised. With social media buzzing over players like Isak and Wirtz, the Egyptian forward may sense that his influence is gradually waning—despite his enduring popularity among supporters worldwide.

Van Dijk, meanwhile, turns 35 this July. While his leadership and defensive authority remain invaluable, age is an unavoidable factor. Liverpool may opt to retain him for another season to guide the next generation, but his long-term role appears increasingly limited.

The contrasting situations are outlined below:

Collymore is unequivocal about Salah’s future, stating bluntly, “I believe Salah will definitely leave next summer.” If that prediction proves correct, Liverpool may soon bid farewell to one of the defining figures of their modern success.

Whether this transition represents decline or renewal remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: Liverpool stand on the threshold of change, and the possible exit of Salah—or even Van Dijk—could mark the true beginning of the end of a remarkable era at Anfield.