Mohamed Salah's Return to Liverpool Amidst Slot Rift
TL;DR (Quick Answer)
Mohamed Salah's continued presence and apparent commitment under new manager Arne Slot is creating immense buzz at Liverpool, signaling a fresh start and renewed hope, especially after past contract uncertainties and a well-publicized touchline spat with Jurgen Klopp.
Introduction
The hallowed grounds of Anfield are undergoing a significant transformation. A new era has dawned, not just with the departure of a beloved manager, Jurgen Klopp, but with the arrival of Arne Slot, tasked with steering the Reds into their next chapter. Amidst this winds of change, one name continues to dominate headlines and fan discussions: Mohamed Salah. The buzz isn't about a physical 'return' in the traditional sense, but rather a renewed focus on his integral role, his commitment, and how his immense talent will seamlessly integrate into Slot's vision. It's a narrative of continuity and fresh possibility, even as whispers of past tensions and the allure of other leagues tried to pull him away. This isn't just a story about a player; it's about the heart and soul of a footballing giant, navigating a pivotal transition. Join us as we unpack the trending narrative, understand the 'earlier rift' that once cast a shadow, and discover why Mohamed Salah's future with Arne Slot is igniting so much passion and anticipation among the global football faithful.
What is the Buzz Around Mohamed Salah's 'Return' to Liverpool with Arne Slot?
You might be hearing a lot of chatter, seeing countless social media posts, and reading endless articles about Mohamed Salah and Arne Slot. But what exactly is the 'return' everyone's talking about? Well, it's not like Salah left Liverpool and is now physically walking back through the doors. Instead, the buzz signifies a powerful narrative of renewed commitment and seamless integration at a crucial juncture for the club. It's about Salah, a talismanic figure, embracing the new managerial era, silencing persistent transfer whispers, and recommitting himself, both on and off the pitch, to the Reds' future under Slot.
Think of it this way: for years, Jurgen Klopp was the undisputed architect of Liverpool's modern success. His departure left a void, a massive question mark hanging over the club. Who would lead them next? And, critically, how would the key players, especially their most prolific goalscorer, adapt or react? The 'buzz' is a collective sigh of relief and excitement from fans who see Salah, the 'Egyptian King,' stepping up to be a cornerstone for Slot's new project. It's the thrill of imagining what new heights this potent combination can reach, how Salah's incredible talent will be unleashed, and how his leadership will guide a team in transition. The media, analysts, and supporters are all captivated by this potential synergy, analyzing every nuance of Slot's tactical approach and how Salah, often the focal point, will fit into it. It's less about a physical comeback and more about a psychological and strategic one, solidifying his role as the unwavering star of a new Liverpool.
Why is Salah's Future (and Past 'Rifts') So Important for Liverpool?
To truly grasp the significance of Salah's ongoing story at Liverpool, you have to understand just how vital he is to the club. He's not just a player; he's a phenomenon, a brand, and arguably the most influential attacking force in world football over the last seven years. Since his arrival in 2017, Salah has consistently delivered breathtaking numbers, shattering goal-scoring records, and proving to be the decisive factor in countless matches. His blistering pace, clinical finishing, and incredible consistency have been instrumental in Liverpool's Premier League and Champions League triumphs. Can you imagine a Liverpool without him? It's a daunting thought for any Red.
His importance transcends mere statistics. Salah is a global icon, adored by millions across the world, particularly in the Middle East and Africa. His presence elevates Liverpool's international appeal, bringing in new fans and commercial opportunities. More than that, he's a leader on the pitch, someone whose very presence lifts his teammates and strikes fear into opposition defenders. For a club embarking on a new managerial journey with Arne Slot, having such a talismanic figure fully committed is absolutely paramount. It provides a crucial sense of stability and continuity during what could otherwise be a turbulent period of change. His future, therefore, isn't just about one player; it's about the club's identity, its competitive edge, and its global standing in the challenging landscape of modern football. Any 'rift' or uncertainty surrounding him, as we've seen in the past, sends ripples of anxiety through the fanbase and the club's hierarchy alike. It's a reminder that even the strongest foundations can feel vulnerable without their key pillars.
Unpacking the 'Earlier Rift': Contract Conundrums and Touchline Tensions
While the current buzz around Salah and Slot is largely positive, it’s impossible to ignore the moments of turbulence that preceded this apparent renewed harmony. The journey of any elite player at a top club is rarely without its bumps, and Salah’s tenure at Anfield has seen its share of highly publicized uncertainties. These past 'rifts,' whether perceived or real, add layers of intrigue to his current situation and underscore the significance of his commitment under Arne Slot.
The Contract Saga: A Lingering Cloud
One of the most persistent and anxiety-inducing 'rifts' surrounding Mohamed Salah has been the ongoing saga of his contract negotiations. It felt, at times, like a never-ending story that stretched over years, keeping fans on tenterhooks. Modern football is a high-stakes business, and securing the future of a world-class talent like Salah involves intricate negotiations, massive financial commitments, and a delicate balance of player ambition versus club strategy.
Throughout various periods, reports emerged suggesting Salah's frustration with the pace of talks, or that the club wasn't quite meeting his expectations regarding remuneration and length of deal. These weren't mere whispers; they were often reported by credible sources, fueling speculation that Salah might be considering his options elsewhere. For a player of his caliber, whose peak years are precious, every contract negotiation is a monumental decision. It's about securing his financial future, yes, but also about feeling valued, appreciated, and aligned with the club's long-term vision. When these talks stalled or dragged on, it created an underlying tension, a sense of unease among the fanbase who desperately wanted their star to commit his prime to Anfield. It's like watching your favourite TV series on a cliffhanger for months – you just want to know what happens next, and the uncertainty can be draining.
The Klopp Touchline Incident: A Public Display of Frustration
Perhaps the most visible and widely discussed 'rift' occurred late in the 2023-2024 season, just weeks before Jurgen Klopp's emotional departure. It was a moment that sent shockwaves through the football world: a very public, heated exchange between Mohamed Salah and Klopp on the touchline during Liverpool’s match against West Ham. Salah, having been left on the bench, was preparing to come on as a substitute when words were exchanged, leading to a visibly annoyed Salah and a seemingly defensive Klopp.
The incident, captured vividly by television cameras, sparked immediate debate. What was said? Was it a sign of deeper underlying issues? While Klopp later downplayed it as a 'non-story' and a normal part of passionate football, Salah's cryptic post-match comment – 'There will be fire if I speak' – only intensified the speculation. It was a rare public crack in the usually harmonious relationship between the star player and his manager, especially one so close to the end of Klopp's reign. In retrospect, it might be viewed as a culmination of the intense pressures of a season that saw Liverpool's title challenge falter, and perhaps the emotional toll of an impending managerial change affecting everyone involved. It served as a stark reminder that even in the most successful partnerships, human emotions can sometimes boil over in the heat of the moment, creating a temporary, yet significant, 'rift.'
The Shadow of Saudi Arabia: A Constant Allure
Beyond the internal dynamics of contracts and touchline spats, a powerful external force has consistently threatened to pull Salah away from Liverpool: the burgeoning Saudi Pro League. Throughout 2023 and into 2024, the Saudi clubs, backed by immense financial resources, launched an aggressive campaign to attract top European talent. Mohamed Salah, given his iconic status in the Arab world and his undisputed quality, quickly became their primary target.
Reports of colossal bids, some rumored to be in the region of £150 million from clubs like Al Ittihad, regularly surfaced. The financial packages offered to Salah were reportedly astronomical, far exceeding what any European club could reasonably match. This constant interest created a persistent undercurrent of uncertainty. Would Liverpool eventually buckle under the financial pressure? Would Salah be tempted by a new challenge, a different lifestyle, and an almost unimaginable salary in the twilight of his career? The 'Saudi factor' was a recurring 'rift' of sorts, a continuous external pull that forced Liverpool and Salah to repeatedly reaffirm their commitment to each other. It was a test of loyalty, ambition, and the enduring appeal of Premier League football versus the glittering, yet unproven, promises of a new footballing frontier. The fact that Salah ultimately remained, despite such intense overtures, speaks volumes about his connection to Liverpool and his drive for continued success at the highest level of European club football.
These past complexities—the drawn-out contract talks, the public disagreement with Klopp, and the relentless pursuit from Saudi Arabia—all contribute to the current sense of excitement around Salah and Slot. They highlight the hurdles overcome and the strength of the bond that has kept Salah at Anfield, ready to embark on this new chapter with a new leader at the helm. And for those keen to follow all the excitement in sports, including football, you might want to consider checking out 1Xbet to engage with the latest games and place your bets responsibly, adding another layer of thrill to your sports viewing experience.
Arne Slot's Arrival: A New Dawn and Tactical Blueprint
The transition from a managerial titan like Jurgen Klopp to a relatively lesser-known, yet highly respected, Arne Slot, was always going to be a moment of intense scrutiny for Liverpool. But Slot's arrival doesn't just represent a change in the dugout; it signifies a new dawn, a fresh tactical blueprint, and a different approach to nurturing the club's incredible talent, including its most prized asset, Mohamed Salah.
Who is Arne Slot? A Glimpse into the Mind of Liverpool's New Boss
For many casual Premier League followers, Arne Slot might have been an unfamiliar name before the Liverpool links emerged. However, within coaching circles and in Dutch football, he is a figure of considerable acclaim. Slot arrives from Feyenoord, where he transformed the club into Eredivisie champions and led them to a European final, all while playing an exhilarating brand of football.
His philosophy is often described as high-energy, attacking, and possession-based, but with a strong emphasis on tactical flexibility. He's known for his meticulous planning, his ability to improve players, and his calm, analytical demeanor. Unlike Klopp's famously passionate, touchline-pacing style, Slot projects a more composed, cerebral presence. He encourages his teams to dominate the ball, press aggressively when out of possession, and create intricate attacking patterns. He values intelligent movement, technical proficiency, and a strong collective work ethic. Essentially, he's a modern, progressive coach who believes in building a robust system that can adapt to different opponents and situations. This approach suggests a manager who isn't afraid to evolve and isn't bound by rigid dogma, which bodes well for integrating a player of Salah's unique qualities.
Slot's Vision for Liverpool: Evolution, Not Revolution
One of the most comforting aspects of Slot's appointment, particularly for fans wary of drastic changes, is his expressed desire for evolution rather than a complete revolution. He inherits a highly successful squad, albeit one that needs refreshing and fine-tuning. Slot's vision for Liverpool is likely to build upon the foundations laid by Klopp—the relentless pressing, the quick transitions, the attacking intent—but to add his own distinct tactical flavor.
This means we can expect Liverpool to continue playing an exciting, front-foot brand of football. However, Slot's teams are often more structured in possession, seeking to control games through intelligent ball circulation and patient build-up, alongside the explosive counter-attacks that have become a hallmark of Liverpool. His communication style, while different from Klopp's, is reportedly clear, direct, and focused on tactical instruction. He will aim to foster a strong team spirit, but perhaps with a slightly more analytical, less overtly emotional approach. Crucially, he understands the immense legacy he's stepping into and the importance of respecting the club's traditions while imprinting his own identity. His vision is about pushing Liverpool forward, maintaining their elite status, and challenging for every major trophy available.
How Salah Fits (and Thrives) in Slot's System: A Tactical Analysis
This is where the excitement truly builds: how will Mohamed Salah, a player so synonymous with Klopp's high-octane football, adapt and potentially thrive under Arne Slot's tactical system? The early indications and tactical analyses suggest a highly promising compatibility.
Slot's system, particularly his use of inverted wingers and attacking full-backs, seems tailor-made for Salah's strengths. At Feyenoord, Slot often utilized wide players who could cut inside, link with central attackers, and exploit spaces created by overlapping full-backs. This is Salah's bread and butter. He excels at drifting in from the right wing, using his left foot to shoot or create, and making intelligent runs into the box. Slot's emphasis on intricate attacking patterns and quick combinations could allow Salah to be even more involved in the build-up play, not just as a finisher, but as a primary creator.
Furthermore, Slot's tactical flexibility means he is unlikely to shackle Salah with overly rigid instructions. Instead, he will likely play to Salah's strengths, giving him the freedom to express himself in the final third. Salah has consistently praised Slot's tactical brilliance and respectful approach, which bodes incredibly well for their working relationship. There's a mutual understanding and appreciation that can only benefit the team. We might see Salah maintaining his position higher up the pitch for longer periods, conserving energy for crucial attacking moments, while the midfield and full-backs provide the defensive cover and ball progression. This could potentially prolong his elite performance level, allowing him to focus on what he does best: scoring goals and terrorizing defenders. The prospect of Salah operating in a refined, tactically astute system under Slot is a tantalizing one, promising new dimensions to his already extraordinary game and potentially unlocking even more goal-scoring opportunities for the Reds.
Step-by-Step: Analyzing the Factors Driving the Renewed Buzz
The current excitement surrounding Mohamed Salah's integration with Arne Slot isn't just a spontaneous outburst; it's a culmination of several interconnected factors that are shaping the narrative around Liverpool's new era. Let's break down the key drivers behind this trending buzz.
1. Leadership Vacuum & Salah's Seniority
With Jurgen Klopp's departure, Liverpool lost not just a manager, but a towering figurehead who embodied the club's spirit and vision for nearly a decade. Klopp was the undisputed leader, motivator, and emotional heart of the team. His absence creates a natural leadership vacuum, both on the field and in the dressing room. Enter Mohamed Salah. As one of the longest-serving, most decorated, and undeniably influential players, Salah's seniority now takes on an even greater significance. He is one of the few remaining links to the era of unparalleled success under Klopp. Fans and the new management alike will look to him to provide continuity, guidance, and a winning mentality for the younger players and new recruits. This elevated role, whether explicit or implicit, naturally puts him at the forefront of the new narrative, generating buzz around his leadership qualities in Slot's setup.
2. Contract Clarity (or Lack Thereof) – The Ongoing Conversation
While Salah signed a significant contract extension in 2022, his current deal means he will enter the final year of his contract relatively soon. In modern football, a player of Salah's stature entering the final 12-18 months of his contract is always a major talking point. The 'buzz' around him now is partly fueled by the club's desire to secure his long-term future under Slot. Even if a new extension isn't imminent, the continuous discussion, speculation, and strategic positioning surrounding his contract keep him firmly in the headlines as a pivotal piece of Slot's puzzle. The clarity, or indeed the strategic lack of it in terms of public announcements, ensures Salah remains a constant subject of interest and analysis, signaling his irreplaceable value to the club's future plans.
3. Slot's Public Admiration and Mutual Respect
One of the most reassuring aspects for Liverpool fans has been the apparent mutual respect and public admiration between Arne Slot and Mohamed Salah. Slot, upon his arrival, has been quick to acknowledge Salah's immense talent and importance to the team. Such endorsements from a new manager are crucial; they immediately signal that the star player is central to his plans and vision. Conversely, reports of Salah praising Slot's tactical brilliance and respectful approach further cement this positive dynamic. This early show of confidence and professional rapport from both sides is infectious, creating a sense of optimism and generating buzz that the transition will be smooth and highly productive for Salah and the team.
4. Desire for Legacy: Salah's Unfinished Business at Anfield
Mohamed Salah is not just chasing goals; he's chasing immortality in Liverpool's history books. He has already etched his name amongst the club's greatest, but there's a tangible desire for him to cement an even grander legacy. Staying at Liverpool, adapting to a new system, and potentially leading the club to more silverware under a new manager would undoubtedly add a unique chapter to his illustrious career. This personal ambition, combined with his deep connection to the club and its fans, fuels the narrative that he's not done yet. He wants to continue breaking records, winning trophies, and being the main man. This powerful desire to leave an indelible mark at Anfield is a significant driver of the current buzz, as fans believe he's motivated to prove himself all over again, even after years of unparalleled success.
5. Unwavering Fan Sentiment and Hope for Continuity
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, the unwavering support and immense hope of the Liverpool fanbase are a colossal factor in generating this buzz. Fans have adored Salah since day one, naming him their 'Egyptian King.' They've seen him deliver miracles, overcome challenges, and consistently perform at an elite level. After the emotional farewell to Klopp, the last thing they want is to lose another legend. Their desire for continuity, for their star man to lead them into the new era, is palpable. This collective sentiment, expressed across social media, forums, and match-day chants, creates a powerful echo chamber of positivity and anticipation. It's the fans' belief that Salah, with Slot, can once again ignite the Reds and embark on a new period of glory, and this belief is the ultimate engine behind the trending narrative.
Comparison Table: Salah's Role Under Klopp vs. Potential Under Slot
Understanding how Mohamed Salah might evolve under Arne Slot requires a look back at his role under Jurgen Klopp and then a forward-thinking analysis of Slot's tactical leanings. While both managers champion attacking football, their nuances could subtly shift Salah's responsibilities and impact.
Common Mistakes / Misconceptions
In the whirlwind of football news and speculation, it's easy to fall prey to common misunderstandings, especially when it concerns a star player and a new managerial era. Let's debunk some of the frequent misconceptions around Mohamed Salah and Arne Slot.
- Mistake 1: Assuming a 'Broken' Relationship Between Salah and Klopp: The touchline spat with Jurgen Klopp at West Ham was intense, public, and certainly not ideal. However, it's a significant leap to assume it meant their entire relationship was 'broken' beyond repair. Professional athletes and managers, driven by high stakes and immense passion, can have disagreements. Klopp himself downplayed it, and given their long history of success together, it was likely a momentary clash of strong personalities rather than a fundamental rupture. Reducing years of mutual respect and achievement to a single incident misrepresents the complexity of their bond. It was an anomaly, not the norm, and likely a reflection of the pressures at the end of an era rather than a deep personal feud.
- Mistake 2: Overstating Transfer Certainty to Saudi Arabia: For what felt like an eternity, Mohamed Salah was constantly linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League, with eye-watering figures thrown around. While the interest was undoubtedly real and the offers substantial, many misinterpreted the persistent rumors as a sign that his departure was inevitable or even desired by the player. Football transfers are incredibly complex, involving player intent, club willingness to sell, financial terms, and family considerations. Salah, despite the allure of immense wealth, consistently showed commitment to Liverpool. It was a strong 'pull' factor, but not a guaranteed 'push' factor. Overstating the certainty of his transfer was a common error, often fueled by sensationalist headlines rather than concrete insider information.
- Mistake 3: Underestimating Arne Slot's Adaptability and Expecting a Klopp Clone: When a hugely successful manager like Klopp leaves, there's a natural tendency to compare every aspect of the new manager to the old one. Some might mistakenly believe that Arne Slot will simply try to replicate Klopp's exact style, or that he won't be able to handle a star like Salah. This underestimates Slot's own tactical acumen and his ability to adapt. He has a distinct philosophy, but also a track record of developing players and building successful teams by playing to their strengths. Expecting a carbon copy of the Klopp era is a mistake; instead, Slot will bring his own innovations, and his approach to managing Salah will likely be tailored, respectful, and designed to maximize the Egyptian's output within a new, evolving system. He's not here to be Klopp; he's here to be Arne Slot, and that's precisely what Liverpool needs.
Benefits of Mohamed Salah Thriving Under Arne Slot
The prospect of Mohamed Salah flourishing under Arne Slot is more than just a feel-good story; it carries significant, tangible benefits for Liverpool Football Club, extending from on-pitch performance to global brand appeal.
- Benefit 1: Continued Goal Threat and Attacking Prowess: This is perhaps the most obvious benefit. Mohamed Salah is an elite, consistent goalscorer. If he thrives under Slot, Liverpool will continue to possess one of the most potent attacking threats in world football. His ability to score from various positions, create chances, and consistently deliver under pressure is irreplaceable. A successful Salah under Slot means Liverpool's goal tally will remain high, directly translating to more wins, more points, and a stronger challenge for domestic and European honors. It provides the team with a reliable source of match-winning moments, which is invaluable in tight contests.
- Benefit 2: Stability Amidst Managerial and Squad Transitions: The departure of a long-serving, successful manager like Jurgen Klopp inherently brings an element of instability. Having a player of Salah's stature not only remain but also excel under the new leadership provides a crucial anchor during this transition period. He offers continuity, a familiar face of excellence, and a beacon of stability for the existing squad and any new signings. This psychological comfort and on-field consistency can prevent the team from suffering a post-Klopp slump, allowing Slot more time and space to implement his ideas without immediate pressure from a drop in results. Salah's steady performance ensures that even as the team evolves, its fundamental quality remains intact.
- Benefit 3: Enhanced Commercial Value and Global Brand Appeal: Mohamed Salah is a global superstar. His image, his reach, and his immense popularity, particularly in Africa and the Middle East, are unmatched by almost any other player. When Salah is performing at his peak, happy, and thriving at Liverpool, it significantly boosts the club's commercial appeal worldwide. Shirt sales, sponsorship deals, media attention, and fan engagement all surge. This commercial strength directly impacts the club's financial health, allowing for greater investment in transfers, facilities, and youth development. His continued success under Slot ensures Liverpool remains a powerhouse, not just on the pitch, but in the global marketplace, attracting new fans and revenue streams.
- Benefit 4: Mentorship and Inspiration for Younger Players: As one of the most experienced and successful players in the squad, Salah serves as an invaluable mentor and source of inspiration for Liverpool's younger talents. Seeing a world-class professional adapt to new tactics, maintain his elite standards, and continue to strive for greatness even after years at the top, provides an incredible learning opportunity for aspiring stars. His dedication, work ethic, and goal-scoring mentality are lessons in themselves. Under Slot, Salah's leadership by example will be crucial in fostering a winning culture and helping the next generation of Liverpool players understand what it takes to succeed at the highest level. His presence offers a bridge between the successful Klopp era and the promising Slot era, ensuring that the club's high standards are maintained and passed down.
FAQs
1. Is Mohamed Salah definitely staying at Liverpool?
While definitive long-term commitments can always shift in football, all current indications point to Mohamed Salah staying at Liverpool, at least for the foreseeable future under Arne Slot. He has praised Slot's approach, and despite past transfer rumors, there's a strong desire from both the player and club to continue their successful partnership.
2. What was the conflict between Salah and Klopp?
The most publicized conflict was a touchline argument during a match against West Ham in May 2024. While visibly heated, both Jurgen Klopp and Salah downplayed it as a momentary disagreement, likely fueled by the intensity and pressure of top-level football, rather than a deep-seated issue.
3. How will Arne Slot's tactics impact Salah?
Arne Slot's system, characterized by high press, possession, and tactical flexibility, is expected to suit Salah well. Slot often uses inverted wingers who cut inside, which aligns perfectly with Salah's strengths. He might find himself involved in more intricate build-up play while retaining his freedom to attack.
4. Has Salah signed a new contract recently?
Mohamed Salah signed his last major contract extension in July 2022, keeping him at Anfield until 2025. While there's always ongoing discussion around players of his caliber, no further new contract has been publicly announced recently in the immediate wake of Slot's arrival, but it remains a key area of interest for fans and the club.
5. Why are there so many rumors about Salah moving to Saudi Arabia?
The rumors stem from substantial financial offers and strong interest from Saudi Pro League clubs, particularly in 2023. Salah's global superstar status and immense popularity in the Arab world made him a prime target for their ambitious recruitment drive, leading to persistent, high-profile transfer speculation.
Conclusion
As the sun sets on one glorious chapter at Anfield and a new one dawns with Arne Slot at the helm, the narrative surrounding Mohamed Salah is more vital and intriguing than ever. The 'buzz' isn't just about a star player; it's about the very soul of Liverpool Football Club finding its rhythm, its continuity, and its renewed ambition in an era of significant change. We’ve delved into the intricacies of Salah's past 'rifts' – the protracted contract negotiations, the momentary touchline tensions with Klopp, and the constant, glittering allure of Saudi Arabian football. Each of these moments, while challenging, ultimately solidified his resolve and commitment to the Reds. His decision to remain, to embrace Slot's vision, speaks volumes about his desire to etch an even deeper legacy into the fabric of this iconic club.
Arne Slot brings a fresh tactical blueprint, one that promises to unleash Salah's unparalleled talents in new and exciting ways, perhaps offering him new avenues to influence games and break more records. The benefits of Salah thriving under Slot are immense: a continued goal threat, crucial stability during transition, enhanced global appeal, and invaluable mentorship for the next generation of Liverpool stars. This partnership isn't just about individual brilliance; it's about the synergy that will drive Liverpool forward, ensuring they remain a formidable force in domestic and European football. The excitement is palpable, the anticipation real. This is more than just a transfer story; it's the beginning of a potentially thrilling new chapter where the 'Egyptian King' continues his reign, leading Liverpool with a fresh sense of purpose. Don't miss a moment of this exciting new journey! For those who love the thrill of the game and want to engage even deeper with the world of sports, consider exploring platforms like 1Xbet. And as always, make sure to follow all the latest updates, engage with fellow fans, and be part of the conversation as Mohamed Salah and Arne Slot write the next glorious pages in Liverpool's illustrious history!
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