Africa-Press – Eritrea. Mohamed Salah, the Liverpool and Egypt forward, has once again sparked debate among parts of his fanbase after posting a photo featuring a Christmas tree on social media.
The Liverpool and Egypt star has made it an annual tradition to share a Christmas tree photograph and message despite his Muslim faith.
Despite not appearing in the image himself, the shared picture drew criticism from some Muslim supporters who said it was inappropriate for a practising Muslim to be associated with a Christmas symbol.
The post, which showed a Christmas tree without Salah visibly present, was widely shared online and quickly attracted comments from fans and critics alike.
Some users pointed to religious concerns, arguing that celebrating Christian-oriented holidays or imagery is at odds with Islamic teachings. These critics suggested that Salah, as one of the world’s most prominent Muslim athletes, should avoid posts linked to religious festivals outside his faith.
One of his followers said: “We waited and he did the GOAT thing. Let their weeping begin. Tears are proudly sponsored by Mo Salah. Merry Christmas.”
Another wrote: ‘You are Muslim… you should respect your relegion and culture… what are you showing to millions of people.’
Another warned: ‘Bro, fear God for your own sake – you’re a Muslim, and millions follow you and love you, most of them Muslims and young, and they’ll see what you’re doing as normal and trivial, but it’s a major sin and an innovation and something that doesn’t concern Muslims.’
Despite being away in Morocco for the African Cup of Nations, Salah has also been met with overwhelming support from both Muslim and non-Muslim fans alike.
Some praised the Liverpool forward for promoting goodwill and unity, saying his message rose above religious differences.
“The world will be a better place if we tolerate our differences,” one supporter said.
“Respect is respect, being in the African Cup of Nations didn’t stop him from sharing love, humanity comes first, Merry Christmas,” another commented.
One fan wrote: “You know, I have been waiting for this picture since on the first of December. So happy to see it – in a way that gives haters and lovers so much to talk about. You never disappoint. It’s my prayer that this joy that you are so full of will continue to fill up your family and the world all together. God bless you.”
The Liverpool star played a decisive role in Egypt’s campaign earlier this week, converting the winning penalty in a 2–1 victory over Zimbabwe on Monday. The Pharaohs are now looking to maintain that momentum when they face South Africa on Friday.
Egypt remain the most decorated nation in AFCON history, having lifted the trophy seven times. However, their last triumph came in 2010 — a year before Salah became a regular fixture in the national team.
