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Salah left out of Champions League squad after explosive interview
Liverpool have excluded Mohamed Salah from their squad for Tuesday's Champions League match at Inter Milan following his public criticism of the club and head coach Arne Slot.
Club decision backed by Slot
Sources confirmed the move was made with Slot's full support, aiming to give both parties space after Salah's remarks. No formal disciplinary action has been taken, though the timing of his comments-just days before the Africa Cup of Nations-raised concerns.
The 33-year-old forward, who joined Liverpool from Roma in 2017, is set to depart for the tournament next Monday and is also expected to miss Saturday's Premier League fixture against Brighton.
Salah's recent struggles and public outburst
Salah's interview followed his third consecutive game as an unused substitute, including Saturday's 3-3 draw at Leeds United. He accused Liverpool of "throwing [him] under the bus" and admitted his relationship with Slot had broken down.
"In my head, I'm going to enjoy that game because I don't know what is going to happen now. I will be in Anfield to say goodbye to the fans and go to the Africa Cup of Nations. I don't know what is going to happen when I am there."
Mohamed Salah, Saturday interview
His last start came in a 4-1 Champions League defeat to PSV Eindhoven, and his last goal was in a 2-0 win at Aston Villa on November 1. This season, he has scored five goals in 18 appearances across all competitions.
Reactions and future prospects
Former England striker Wayne Rooney criticized Salah's comments, calling them "disrespectful" and arguing they undermined the club. Rooney suggested Slot should exclude Salah from upcoming matches to assert authority.
Despite the rift, Salah trained with the squad on Monday, signaling a potential path to reconciliation. BBC Sport reports he is not actively seeking an exit, and Liverpool still envision a future for the forward, who signed a two-year contract extension in April.
Slot will address the media at 18:45 GMT on Monday, with fans awaiting clarity on Salah's role under the new management.
Legacy and contract context
Salah has scored 250 goals in 420 appearances for Liverpool, including 29 in the 2024-25 Premier League campaign, which helped secure the title. His recent remarks contrast with his April statement upon signing his new deal: "I have played eight years here, hopefully it's going to be 10. I'm enjoying my life here, enjoying my football."
