Mohamed Salah Shares Festive Christmas Tree Photo With Daughters Online Amid Backlash From Some Muslim Followers

Mohamed Salah has done it again. The Liverpool and Egypt star shared a festive snapshot of his daughters, Makka and Kayan, next to a Christmas tree, sparking both criticism and praise online.

At 33, Salah has made posting a Christmas greeting something of a holiday tradition, despite being Muslim — and this year was no different.

A Simple Message, a Big Reaction

Salah’s post was simple: a photo of his daughters with baubles and a huge red ribbon, accompanied by the hashtag #MerryChristmas.

But even that small message of goodwill stirred strong reactions among followers on social media.

Some critics felt that celebrating a festival outside of Islam was inappropriate.

One follower wrote, “I thought you wouldn’t celebrate this festival, which is forbidden in our faith.”

Another warned that congratulating non-Muslims on their holidays could be seen as “a major sin” and an innovation outside the faith.

Criticism From Devoted Fans

Some reactions were heartfelt and personal.

One follower admitted their admiration for Salah but said, “Even though you never played for Manchester City, you inspired me.

However, after this tweet, I can no longer view you as my role model.”

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Others reminded him of the responsibility fame brings, saying it’s important to respect religious beliefs in front of millions of fans, especially young Muslims who look up to him.

Support and Praise Come Flooding In

But the backlash was only one side of the story.

Many fans, both Muslim and non-Muslim, applauded Salah for spreading a message of unity and goodwill.

Comments praised him for focusing on humanity first and for ignoring negativity.

One fan wrote, “The world will be a better place if we tolerate our differences,” while another said, “I really respect how he ignores all the hate and does this every year just for his children.”

Salah’s Focus Remains on AFCON

Salah himself was far from the Christmas tree, busy with Egypt at the African Cup of Nations in Morocco.

On Christmas Day, he was training with the national team, continuing his pursuit of the first AFCON title of his career.

He recently scored the winning penalty in a 2-1 victory over Zimbabwe, with hopes of building momentum ahead of a crucial match against South Africa.

Egypt’s AFCON Quest

Egypt is the most successful nation in AFCON history, boasting seven titles, though they haven’t won since 2010 — just before Salah broke into the national side.

While he couldn’t physically celebrate under the tree, Salah’s online gesture reminded fans that the Egyptian King balances family, faith, and football, even amid global scrutiny.

The Bigger Picture

Salah’s Christmas post shows how global figures navigate the intersection of faith, family, and public life.

It’s a reminder that even small gestures, like a holiday greeting, can spark conversations about tolerance, respect, and the responsibility that comes with fame.