Mohamed Salah’s sensational season has hit a sudden roadblock, with two subdued performances in Liverpool’s recent defeats in the Champions League and the Carabao Cup final. Former Manchester City defender Micah Richards believes he may have an explanation for the Egyptian’s recent dip in form.

Salah was largely ineffective as Liverpool fell to a 2-1 defeat against Newcastle United at Wembley on Sunday, with the Magpies securing their first domestic trophy in 70 years. That result followed their elimination from the Champions League at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain, a match in which Salah was also kept quiet.

Ramadan’s Impact on Salah’s Performances

Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, Richards highlighted how Salah’s observance of Ramadan might be affecting his performances.

"Don't forget, Salah is fasting for Ramadan right now," Richards said. "It’s only natural that he won’t have the same energy levels as when he can eat.

"For him to still be out there playing at that level is absolutely outstanding. Just to be on the pitch, competing the way he does, is incredible."

During Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, many Muslims refrain from eating or drinking during daylight hours. This year, fasting takes place from 28 February to 30 March, meaning Salah will have completed his observance by the time Liverpool next play on 2 April.

Liverpool’s Dependence on Salah

Richards also noted how much Liverpool rely on their star forward to deliver match-winning moments.

"I think this team is so reliant on Mo Salah," he continued. "They expect something special from him—whether it’s a stunning goal, a penalty, or a free-kick.

"I just felt that Liverpool’s performance was a bit flat. Maybe it was a psychological effect from the PSG result."

Slot Reflects on Back-to-Back Defeats

For Liverpool manager Arne Slot, the back-to-back losses mark the first time he has experienced consecutive defeats in his career. However, he remained positive, emphasising Liverpool’s strong position in the Premier League.

"It took us seven months to lose two games in a row, and it happened against two strong teams—one fighting for Champions League places and the other being PSG," Slot said.

"At the moment, PSG are probably the best team in Europe. But I want to make it clear that our week started well with a win over Southampton, which extended our lead to 12 points.

"When you progress in tournaments, the opposition gets stronger. Even Liverpool can lose games."

Newcastle’s Hunger vs Liverpool’s Fatigue

Newcastle’s historic triumph was a landmark moment for the club, but Slot dismissed the idea that the Magpies were hungrier than his side.

"They gained extra energy from their goal, which they probably deserved, but I don’t think they had more desire than us. The match simply played out the way they wanted it to," he said.

Asked whether Liverpool’s struggles were physical or mental, Slot admitted it was difficult to assess.

"Mentally, it’s always hard to judge. Were we at our best on Tuesday? No. But this was a different type of game—it wasn’t about running, so you couldn’t say we were tired.

"There was nothing to press because they bypassed our press. It was a match full of set-pieces, played at a slow pace, so it’s hard to judge our physical condition.

"Mentally, I prefer to look at how the game unfolded exactly the way they wanted—with lots of aerial duels and physical battles.

"If we play 10 matches like that, they win nine times. That’s what led to their first and second goals."

Slot Eager to Return to Action

With Liverpool not in action again until April due to the international break, Slot admitted he would have preferred to get straight back to work.

"We are one of the biggest clubs in the world, but this is not the first time Liverpool have lost two games in a row," he said.

"I would have loved to play next week."