Mohamed Salah’s possible move to Al-Ittihad has failed to win the expected backing from the Saudi club’s supporters, with many arguing that Moussa Diaby remains the better option for the team.
Reports in recent days have suggested that Salah could join Al-Ittihad during the current summer transfer window after officially leaving Liverpool. The Egypt captain has also been linked with a move outside Europe as he considers the next stage of his career.
However, the reaction from a significant section of Al-Ittihad’s fanbase has been firmly against the idea of signing the former Liverpool forward.
On the social media platform X, many supporters said Diaby should remain the club’s preferred choice. They believe the France winger still has several years at the highest level ahead of him and is better suited to Al-Ittihad’s current style of play.
Some fans also questioned whether replacing Diaby with Salah would bring the benefit the team needs. Their argument is that Al-Ittihad should retain younger players who can continue contributing over several seasons, rather than make a change that might offer less value in the longer term.
The debate has therefore extended beyond a direct comparison between the two players. Salah’s age has also become a central issue for supporters who feel he is at an advanced stage of his career and that investing in him would be less worthwhile than recruiting younger footballers with greater potential to contribute in the future.
Diaby, who joined Al-Ittihad as part of the club’s plans for the present and coming seasons, has consequently received strong backing from fans who want to see him continue in his role. For those supporters, keeping the French winger represents greater continuity than pursuing a high-profile deal for Salah.
There is still another view among the club’s fanbase. Some supporters recognise Salah’s considerable technical quality and the impact he could bring, but believe Al-Ittihad’s immediate priorities lie elsewhere. They argue that the club should strengthen different positions or focus on players who fit its long-term project more closely.
Despite the growing discussion, there has been no official indication that Al-Ittihad are negotiating with Salah. At present, the proposed transfer remains speculation rather than a confirmed move.
The reaction from supporters, though, suggests that many have already formed a view on the matter. For a large section of the fanbase, Diaby should stay ahead of any attempt to bring Salah to the club, even though the Egypt international’s reputation and ability remain widely respected.
A separate report linked alongside the story examines claims surrounding Matthias Jaissle and possible interest from Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr, following discussion of his relationship with Al-Ahli.