Raouf Khalif, a veteran Tunisian reporter, stated in a televised interview that Mohamed Salah, the Egyptian star of Liverpool, deserves this year’s Ballon d’Or. He highlighted Salah’s stunning stats in the Premier League this season, saying: “Salah has had an extraordinary performance, leading the league with 27 goals and 18 assists. This form has brought Liverpool very close to the title.”

Khalif added: “Performing at this level for multiple consecutive seasons is extremely difficult, and Salah has done it. If he were English, he would surely win the Ballon d’Or, but unfortunately, FIFA still prioritizes a player’s nationality over their performance.”

The Tunisian reporter also emphasized that he was the first to give Salah the title “Pride of the Arabs” and said the overwhelming reaction from Egyptian fans on social media kept him awake that night.

Khalif also spoke about Imam Ashour, Al Ahly’s star, saying: “He is a talented player and deserves to play in European football, provided he maintains full professional and behavioral discipline.”