Liverpool striker Mohamed Salah faced criticism from some Muslim fans after posting a Christmas celebration photo, with some saying they would unfollow him if he did not delete it.
On 26 Dec 2025 GMT+7, the UK's Daily Mail reported comments from some Muslim fans criticizing Egyptian international winger Mohamed Salah of Liverpool on social media after he posted a Christmas celebration photo with the hashtag #MerryChristmas on Instagram and Twitter.
Salah, a Muslim, posted a photo of his two daughters, Makka and Kayan, in Christmas-themed pajamas by a Christmas tree, prompting many comments from some Muslims, as celebrating Christmas is not customary in Islam.
“I thought you would not celebrate this festival, which is forbidden in our religion.”
“I can no longer see you as my role model. You have deeply disappointed me. If you don't delete this tweet, I will unfollow you.”
“You are a Muslim... You should respect your religion and culture... What message are you showing to millions of people?”
“You are Muslim, with millions of followers who love you, mostly young Muslims. They will see your actions as normal and minor, but actually, it is a major sin, an act against principles, and something Muslims should not do.”
However, some defended Salah, saying, “You know, I was waiting for this picture. So happy to see it. You never disappoint. I pray your happiness fills your family and the whole world. God bless you.”
“Respect is respect. Participating in the African Cup of Nations doesn’t stop him from sharing love. Humanity comes first. Merry Christmas.”
Salah regularly encounters this controversy every year but continues to post Christmas celebrations as usual.
