Liverpool’s summer of change has claimed another headline departure, and this time Mohamed Salah made sure to bid a heartfelt farewell. Harvey Elliott, one of the club’s most promising homegrown talents, has completed a £35 million move to Aston Villa — and Salah’s touching tribute has captured the emotions of many Reds supporters.
The 22-year-old midfielder had been linked with a move abroad to RB Leipzig, where he was touted as a possible replacement for Xavi Simons. But in a dramatic deadline-day twist, Aston Villa swooped in to seal the deal, ending Elliott’s six-year stay at Anfield. During that time, the boyhood Liverpool fan made 149 appearances, scored 15 goals, and carved out a reputation as a dedicated and fearless performer whenever called upon.
For Salah, the loss of Elliott comes during what has been a turbulent transfer window. The Egyptian forward has not hidden his frustration at the exodus of key teammates, even publicly urging fans to show greater respect to Luis Díaz and Darwin Núñez earlier this week. Yet his message to Elliott was filled not with regret but admiration and encouragement.
“You will be remembered for your loyalty and dedication every time you were called upon. You leave as a champion, and I have no doubt you will achieve great things at your new club. They are lucky to have you,” Salah wrote on X, in a post widely shared by Liverpool fans.
Elliott now embarks on a new journey in the Premier League under Unai Emery at Villa Park, where expectations are high following their strong domestic and European campaigns. Meanwhile, Salah remains the face of a Liverpool team in transition, hoping his words of support can inspire Elliott to shine in claret and blue, just as he did in red.
