Liverpool, Man City face questions in new era without Mo Salah, Pep Guardiola

Liverpool and Manchester City face significant questions in their new eras without Mohamed Salah and Pep Guardiola. For the first time since 2016, Liverpool commence their campaign without Salah, their star forward, while City can no longer rely on Guardiola's leadership after their decade of success. Salah transferred to Turkish club Trabzonspor in August, ending his Anfield career as one of Liverpool's most iconic players.

Guardiola resigned at the end of last season, marking the end of the most successful period in City's history. Now, Liverpool and City begin new seasons without their respective icons. City will host Bournemouth on Sunday, with Enzo Maresca taking over as Guardiola's successor. Later, Liverpool's new manager, Andoni Iraola, will field a team without Salah when the Reds travel to Newcastle.

The uncertainty surrounding both City and Liverpool reflects the impact of Guardiola and Salah's departures, as well as the turbulent circumstances surrounding their emotional farewells in May. Guardiola won six Premier League titles and the club's first Champions League crown, but failed to win the title in his final two years due to fatigue.

He also faced FA charges related to financial breaches, which remain unresolved. Meanwhile, Liverpool, who signed Salah for £36 million in 2017, struggled after his departure, failing to win the league in his absence. Replacing Salah's talent will take more than a single player, as the club hopes new signings Alexander Isak, Victor Munoz, and teenager Rio Ngumoha can make a difference. However, neither Liverpool nor City will ever be the same without their era-defining icons.