Mohamed Salah is preparing for his final game against Manchester City as a Liverpool player
Man City boss Pep Guardiola gestures
Man City boss Pep Guardiola has lauded Liverpool star Mo Salah (Image: Javier Garcia/Shutterstock)
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Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has heaped praise on departing Liverpool star Mohamed Salah. Saturday's FA Cup quarter-final match between the two sides will be Salah's final game against City for the Reds.
Both sides have enjoyed a memorable rivalry in recent years – particularly when Jurgen Klopp was manager at Anfield. No one outside of Liverpool and City have won the Premier League title since Chelsea in 2016/17, with the Reds claiming two and Guardiola's team winning six during that period.
Salah has scored 13 goals in 25 appearances against the Blues and will be eager to get on the scoresheet this weekend as Arne Slot's men look to rescue a poor campaign. Liverpool have lost both previous meetings against City this season, with Salah failing to get on the scoresheet.
But Guardiola is well aware of the forward's threat and has lauded the Egyptian's impact on English football, having played for Chelsea and Liverpool during a glittering career.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, he said: "One of the greats. What a player! I think he's an incredible human being.
"Goals and assists, an absolute legend for Liverpool and for the whole Premier League for what he has done.
Mohamed Salah gestures
Mohamed Salah will go down as one of Liverpool's greatest-ever players(Image: PA)
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"I think it's a good moment to say goodbye to him in this country tomorrow, he deserves the incredible recognition that he has given to world football, especially in this country."
Liverpool face a daunting Champions League last eight tie against holders Paris Saint-Germain after Saturday's game, but Guardiola believes the Reds remain dangerous in Europe's elite competition.
He added: “The team made an incredible investment last season to be there many years, they are in the Champions League. It is a top contender, top class players.”
Liverpool may have to win this year's Champions League to qualify for next season's competition. The Reds sit fifth in the Premier League table, which should be enough to seal their place, although a run of three league games without a win has put thei qualification in doubt.
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