Former Liverpool and Senegal striker El Hadji Diouf has thrown his weight behind a potential attacking partnership between Mohamed Salah and Victor Osimhen.
Speaking to Africa Foot, Diouf said he believed the Egyptian and Nigerian forwards possess complementary qualities that could reignite Liverpool’s frontline.
“I am convinced that it could work, that these two players could be complementary. I would like to see this duo form,” he said.
Mohammed Salah. Photo Credit: Getty Images
Diouf highlighted both players’ standout form in the 2024/25 season.
“Mohamed Salah had an exceptional season, finishing top scorer in the Premier League, and he played an important part in the conquest of the title.
Osimhen finished top scorer in the Turkish championship. They are two footballers with different characteristics, but who could very well get along.”
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Osimhen, 26, spent the season on loan at Galatasaray, where he delivered spectacularly, scoring 37 goals and providing 8 assists in 41 appearances, leading the Istanbul giants to a domestic double.
Despite strong interest from the Middle East, Osimhen reportedly rejected a €40 million offer from Al-Hilal ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup, signalling his desire to remain in or return to European competition.
“I remember the Mo Salah–Sadio Mané association, which worked very well. I think the Salah–Osimhen duo could do just as well!” Diouf added.
Diouf and Mane in the gym. Photo Credit: X
Currently under contract with Napoli, Osimhen is widely expected to make a permanent move this summer, with Liverpool among the clubs linked to his signature.
Diouf, who spent two seasons at Liverpool from 2002 to 2004, remains a controversial but influential voice in African football.
A two-time African Footballer of the Year (2001, 2002), he scored 21 goals in 69 caps for Senegal and was part of the iconic 2002 FIFA World Cup squad.
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However, his career was repeatedly marred by off-the-pitch issues. In 2011, he received a five-year ban from the Senegalese national team after failing to attend a disciplinary hearing, though the suspension was lifted a year later.
In England, he was accused multiple times of spitting at fans and opponents, including a 2002 incident involving West Ham supporters at Anfield.
