Mohamed Salah’s story of success and sacrifice: ‘Chasing a dream I had to reach’

A new book by journalist Melissa Reddy, excerpted exclusively by The Guardian, chronicles Mohamed Salah's journey from Al Mokawloon Al Arab's youth academy in Nasr City, eastern Cairo, where he began training at age 14. The extract focuses on Salah's early sacrifices and unwavering dedication to fulfilling his footballing ambitions, describing his rise as an achievement of 'the impossible.' Salah's face now hangs prominently above the academy's gates, serving as an inspirational symbol for future generations of young players.