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Slot confirms no desire to lose Salah
Liverpool manager Arne Slot stated he sees no reason for Mohamed Salah to leave the club, announcing plans to discuss the forward's future with him on Friday.
Salah's recent exclusion sparks tension
The 33-year-old Egypt international claimed he was "thrown under the bus" by Liverpool after being left out of the squad for Tuesday's Champions League match against Inter Milan. Salah had earlier expressed frustration following Saturday's 1-1 draw at Leeds United, stating he had "earned his place" in the team.
Contract and performance context
Salah, who joined Liverpool from Roma in 2017, signed a two-year contract extension in April. He has scored 250 goals in 420 appearances for the club but has been an unused substitute in two of the last three Premier League games. His last start came on 26 November in a Champions League defeat to PSV Eindhoven, while his most recent appearance was as a substitute in a 1-1 draw against Sunderland on 3 December.
Upcoming talks and Africa Cup of Nations absence
Slot revealed that discussions between Salah's representatives and the club followed the Sunderland match. The forward is set to leave for the Africa Cup of Nations on Monday, with his return potentially delayed until after the tournament's final on 18 January. This season, Salah has scored five goals in 18 appearances across the Premier League and Champions League.
"I have no reasons to not want him to stay. I will have a conversation with Mo. The outcome of that conversation determines how things will look [on Saturday]."
Arne Slot, Liverpool manager
Selection decisions and club dynamics
Slot clarified that the decision to omit Salah from the squad for the Inter Milan match was made collectively by the club, including sporting director Richard Hughes and chief executive Michael Edwards. However, he emphasized that lineup and squad selection remain his responsibility.
Despite Salah's hints at a potential departure after the Leeds game, Slot suggested there is still a possibility the forward could feature against Brighton on Saturday. The manager avoided further public comments on the matter, stating it would be "useless" to discuss it without speaking to Salah directly.
Future remains uncertain
While Salah was excluded from the squad for a "short period," Slot left the door open for his return, either for the Brighton match or after the Africa Cup of Nations. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing interest from Saudi Pro League clubs adding to the uncertainty.
