Egyptian Soccer Star Mohamed Salah Is An International Muslim Icon

 

Mohamed Salah is the breakout sports icon of 2018.

The Egyptian soccer star took 2018 by storm. He made history for Liverpool in the Premier League, with 32 goals — the most ever in a single season. Now, his image has become one of the hottest merchandise items in the Muslim world, ahead of the holy month of Ramadan. Across Cairo, his face is plastered on pillows, toys, and more.

“Of course, Mohamed Salah is a role model for all Egyptians at the moment,” explained soccer fan Omnia El Samman. “All of Egypt loves Mo Salah — as they call him in England — he is a role model for Egyptians and for the English, too.”

Although Muslims are obligated to fast during Ramadan, Egypt’s Grand Mufti has reportedly granted Salah and his teammates the ability to postpone their fast ahead of the Champions League Final against Real Madrid on May 26. It would be Liverpool’s first Champions’ League title since 2005.