Astute speed, classy dribbling, and finishing just over the top, Mohamed Salah is a full package. The Liverpool forward hardly misses a day to shine on the pitch and showcase his talent among ardent fans. Although an entire day wouldn’t be enough to delve into his soccer brilliance, today we turn our attention to something else regarding his life beyond the field. Many people are intrigued to know about the religion Salah follows and his past roots.

Speaking of his origin, Mohamed Salah was born and raised in Nagrig, Basyoun, Egypt on June 15, 1992. Usually in Egypt, the largest population identifies as Sunni Muslim. The rest of the group includes Shia Muslims, Dawoodi Bohra Muslims, and Ahmadi Muslims. In fact, there would be a minority of people in Egypt who also practice Christianity.

So what religion does Salah follow? Well, he is a Muslim. The former Chelsea reject has often shared pictures alongside his family visiting Mecca in Saudi Arabia, also one of the holy places for the Islamic people. In fact, ardent fans may recall the forward often praying on the pitch before any match kicks off.

Then again, even though it’s clear that he is a Muslim devotee and practices Islam, why did the Liverpool forward get bashed by his own fans over taking part in the biggest festival of Christians that they celebrate around the world at the end of the year?

Why is Mohamed Salah getting criticized for celebrating Christmas?

Mohamed Salah has once again become a subject of criticism from some of his Muslim followers after sharing a photo of himself and his family in front of a Christmas tree. Even though the Liverpool star practices Muslim religion, he caught the majority of his fans off guard by sharing a picture among his 64 million followers with the caption “#MerryChristmas.”

In fact, it has no less than a yearly tradition for Salah, who at least seems to delve into the Christmas spirit along with his wife Magi, and their daughters, Makka and Kayan. The family was seen posing, smiling alongside their Christmas tree at home while sitting in coordinated pajamas and a gingerbread figure. 

Of course, Christmas is not a traditional celebration in Islam, but a few Muslims choose to join in the festivities associated with the Christian holiday. Then again, the former AS Roma star wasn’t spared by the netizens, especially the Muslim supporters, who questioned him for taking part in this winter-themed festival of Christians.

One can say the comments have rather been mixed. While half of the population are expressing their question and anger on the winger for Christmas celebrations, others have come in support of the Reds stars to ignore the negative remarks and rather enjoy the spirit of the holidays. 

What are your thoughts on Mohamed Salah celebrating Christmas and receiving such backlash from his Muslim fans? Let us know in the comments.