Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah faces backlash from Muslim fans after posting a photo of a Christmas tree, a year on from when Egyptian star and his wife faced criticism for similar post

Liverpool star Mohamed Salah has been criticized on social media by Muslim fans after posting a Christmas message.

Salah, who is Muslim, posted a photo of a Christmas tree and added a caption talking about the conflict between Israel and Palestine, before wishing his followers a “Merry Christmas.”

Muslims do not traditionally celebrate Christmas, but some do participate in the festivities that take place during the Christian holiday.

Salah was criticized by fans on social media last year after posting a photo of him, his wife Magi and daughters Makka and Kayan – posing in matching pajamas in front of a Christmas tree.

He was again criticized by Muslim fans for his traditional Christmas post.

Salah and his wife Magi (second from right) were criticized for posting a Christmas message on social media last year – with a family photo taken in front of a Christmas tree

Salah mentioned the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine in his post before wishing his followers a Merry Christmas

One fan wrote that Salah is 'embarrassing to the Muslim world', while another said they were 'disappointed' with the Liverpool star.

Another supporter wrote: 'This is so rude Salah, you are Muslim and not Christian. Our Christmas is in April, shame on you brother.”

Someone claiming to be an Arsenal supporter wrote: 'Mo Salah, I loved you as an Arsenal fan. I thought you were an excellent player and you have always inspired me.

“However, after this tweet, I can no longer see you as my role model. You have disappointed me. If you don't delete this tweet, I'll have to unfollow you.'

Others defended Mo with one writing: 'As Muslims we are not allowed to judge. But everyone loves to judge Salah every Christmas. I guess we're not all perfect. Liberate Palestine.'

While another tweeted: 'This is a powerful message and a reminder to keep those innocent civilians in our thoughts. Lots of love, Mo.'

Salah wrote in his message along with the image of the Christmas tree: 'Christmas is a time when families come together and celebrate.

“With the brutal war going on in the Middle East, especially the death and destruction in Gaza, we approach Christmas this year with heavy hearts and share the pain of the families mourning the loss of their loved ones.

Muslims do not traditionally celebrate Christmas, but some do participate in the festivities that take place during the Christian holiday

“Please don't forget them and don't get used to their suffering. Merry christmas.'

Salah is perhaps the greatest Muslim sports star in the world thanks to his achievements in football.

He has again been in excellent form for Liverpool this season after a summer of speculation over a possible move to Saudi Arabia. So far, he has scored 16 goals and registered eight assists in 25 appearances in all competitions.

He will soon be away with Egypt for the African Cup of Nations and could miss around a month after their match against Newcastle on New Year's Day.