Tokyo, Japan – Liverpool football Club’s pre-season tour took an unexpected turn as a visit to Tokyo’s Senso-ji Temple by teh team, including Egyptian star Mohamed Salah, sparked debate online, especially in Egypt. The incident occurred during a cultural excursion designed to immerse players in the traditions of the countries they visit.
The team’s schedule, orchestrated by Liverpool management, included a stop at Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple, founded in 645 AD and dedicated to the bodhisattva Kannon.Images and videos circulated widely on social media showing Salah and his teammates exploring the temple grounds, a popular destination attracting over 30 million visitors annually.
While many lauded the visit as a demonstration of cultural exchange and openness,some Egyptian social media users voiced concerns about Salah’s presence in a Buddhist temple. The controversy centers around religious sensitivities within certain segments of Egyptian society. The temple, located in Asakusa, is known for its iconic Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate) and Nakamise-dori shopping street.
Liverpool is currently in Asia as part of their preparations for the upcoming 2023-2024 english Premier League season. They are scheduled to compete in the FA Community Shield match against Crystal Palace on Sunday, August 13th, at Wembley Stadium in London. The charitable shield match will kick off at 16:00 BST.
The Asian tour, which also included stops in Singapore, has been met with enthusiastic fan engagement, with particular attention focused on Mohamed Salah, who scored 19 Premier League goals last season. Liverpool finished fifth in the Premier League last season, qualifying for the Europa League.The team is managed by Jรผrgen Klopp, who is entering his ninth season with the club.