Former Liverpool star claims only Lionel Messi is on same level as Mohamed Salah

The Egyptian is the favourite to win the Ballon d’Or this year.

According to the former Reds star Markus Babbel, Lionel Messi is the only player on the planet who is on the same level as Liverpool hero Mohamed Salah.

With 28 goals and 19 assists in 36 appearances across all competitions this season, Salah has been heralded as an early favourite to win the Ballon d’Or for his exceptional efforts for the Premier League leaders.

The Reds have been in terrific form this season as they are at the top of the Premier League and are contenders to win the league as well as the Champions League.

In the previous year’s Ballon d’Or rankings, Salah did not even place in the top 30, as City star Rodri defeated Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior to win the award. Babbel, however, feels that Salah is well ahead of all other competitors this year and that Messi, the sensation from Argentina and Inter Miami, is the only player who can compete on par with him.

“The goal record isn’t normal; I can only compare him to Messi with that goal scoring power. It’s not just the last season either, it’s the last ten years, his level is truly world class. I’m so surprised that he has never been in the running for the Ballon d’Or, I can’t believe he has never been in the top three – he’s the best player in the world in his position.

“Salah has a real chance to win the Ballon d’Or this year, but I think it will go to a Real Madrid player after they didn’t come to the ceremony this year – he deserves it though.”

When Liverpool play Aston Villa tonight, they hope to further expand the gap over Arsenal, who are currently seven points below them. Head coach Arne Slot is probably going to give Salah a prominent role once more.

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