Liverpool left-back Milos Kerkez has reflected on the end of an era at Anfield following the departure of Mo Salah, emphasizing the need for a fresh generation of players to step forward. Salah left Liverpool at the conclusion of the recent season after a highly successful spell with the club, leaving a significant legacy that Kerkez acknowledged while also noting ongoing uncertainty about the forward’s next destination.

Kerkez, who spent one season alongside Salah and fellow teammate Dominik Szoboszlai, spoke about the impact Salah had during his time at Liverpool and revealed that he remains in contact with the Egyptian forward, primarily discussing personal matters such as vacations. “I just walked out [seeing] how many goals and assists Mo had, it was 300 and something,” Kerkez said, expressing both admiration and surprise at Salah’s achievements.

The 22-year-old defender also addressed the competition for the left-back position that has intensified with the return of Kostas Tsimikas this summer. Both players are vying for regular playing time under new head coach Andoni Iraola. Despite the position battle, Kerkez maintained there is no friction between him and Tsimikas, describing their relationship as positive and noting cultural similarities between them as Serbian and Greek players.

Kerkez recounted the camaraderie during pre-season, highlighting the close connection among himself, Szoboszlai, Tsimikas, and Salah before the latter’s exit. “There is no bad blood. Kostas is Greek, I’m Serbian, we have that kind of similar mentality,” he said.

Regarding his off-season, Kerkez described a period of rest and family time, though he admitted that after about 10 days away from the game, he was eager to return to training. His summer was spent primarily in Serbia, with some time also in Spain and Montenegro.

Kerkez further commented on the contract extension of Dominik Szoboszlai, which was confirmed earlier this month and seen as a key move for Liverpool’s future. He stressed Szoboszlai’s growing importance within the squad and leadership role on the pitch. “Last year, you could see how important he was with everything. He is getting even better in that role of a leader and he is very important for us,” Kerkez said. He added that the squad is pleased Szoboszlai will be staying at the club for the foreseeable future.