Welcome back to It Was What It Was, the Football History podcast hosted by Jonathan Wilson and Rob Draper. In this second episode of a two-part special, we explore the life of Mohamed Salah - from winning his third PFA player of the year award, to the pressures and the complex political landscape he navigates in Egypt . We delve into Salah's impact in the UK, his challenging relationship with International football, from rural Egypt to the global stage, Mohamed Salah's journey is as thrilling as it is complex. Join us for an in-depth look at one of the most intriguing figures in modern football.

00:00 Introduction

00:44 Mohamed Salah's Political and Cultural Significance

03:01 The Complexities of Expressing Political Views

05:02 Historical Context: Egypt's Political Landscape

14:19 The Arab Spring and Its Aftermath

24:06 Mohamed Salah's Relationship with the Egyptian National Team

27:40 High Stakes in World Cup Play-offs

28:35 Egypt's Football Legacy and Recent Struggles

29:55 The 2018 World Cup Disappointment

31:56 Controversies and Criticisms

37:59 Political Pressures and Social Media

44:46 Salah's Impact in the UK

49:24 The Ballon d'Or and Future Prospects

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