Mohamed Salah: "This is my best chance" at Ballon d'Or

The 32-year-old forward has been in imperious form, tallying 28 goals and 18 assists in league play, leading the Golden Boot race and driving Liverpool's title charge under new manager Arne Slot. Speaking to Sky Sports, Salah admitted this season could be the defining moment of his career.

"I've never had a season like this - individually and collectively," Salah said. "We won a major trophy, my numbers are the best they've ever been, so I'd say this is my best chance to win the Ballon d'Or."

Salah, who extended his Liverpool contract in April, is among the frontrunners for the coveted award, with the winner set to be announced in Paris on September 22. Should he win, he would become the first Egyptian - and the first Liverpool player since Michael Owen in 2001 - to claim the honour.

Still, the competition is fierce. Barcelona's breakout winger Lamine Yamal and Paris Saint-Germain's Ousmane Dembele are also in contention after strong domestic campaigns that saw their clubs clinch league titles.

Slot, speaking at a Friday news conference, backed Salah's credentials, noting the exceptional combination of individual brilliance and team success.

"Mo's had some phenomenal seasons, but this one stands out - both statistically and in terms of silverware," Slot said. "If there's ever been a season where he truly deserves the Ballon d'Or, it's this one."

The Liverpool boss also praised Salah's relentless drive, suggesting that even if he falls short, the Egyptian is far from done.

"With Mo, you never rule anything out. He's shown time and again that he can elevate his game. Even improving on this season seems impossible-but with him, nothing really is."

With Liverpool back at the summit of English football and Salah at the peak of his powers, the stage is set. All that remains is for global football's top individual prize to reflect what many see as a career-defining campaign.