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Salah claims Liverpool betrayed him after third straight bench appearance
Mohamed Salah has accused Liverpool of publicly blaming him for the club's struggles, saying he feels "thrown under the bus" after being left out of the starting lineup for the third consecutive Premier League match. The Egypt forward, who remained an unused substitute in Saturday's 3-3 draw at Leeds United, delivered an emotional interview suggesting his relationship with manager Arne Slot has collapsed.
Salah's explosive post-match remarks
Speaking to reporters after the game, Salah expressed disbelief at his exclusion, questioning why he had been sidelined despite his contributions to the club. "I think it is very clear that someone wanted me to get all of the blame," he said. "I don't know why, but it seems to me, how I see it, that someone doesn't want me in the club."
Salah, who signed a two-year contract extension in April, admitted he is uncertain about his future at Anfield. "It [the situation] is not acceptable to me," he said. "I don't get it. I have done so much for this club. I don't have to go every day fighting for my position because I earned it."
"This club, I will always support it. My kids will always support it. I love the club so much and I always will. But I don't know what is going to happen now."
Mohamed Salah
Slot defends decision as Saudi clubs circle
Slot explained Salah's omission by citing tactical reasons, stating the team did not need a goal when leading 3-2. "Normally when you need a goal, like last week against Sunderland, I brought Mo on," he said. The Dutch manager acknowledged the scrutiny surrounding Salah's absence but refrained from further elaboration.
Meanwhile, Saudi Pro League clubs, including Al-Hilal, have reportedly expressed interest in signing Salah. Sources indicate Liverpool are open to discussions about his future, though no formal offers have been made.
Salah's Liverpool legacy hangs in the balance
Salah, who joined Liverpool from Roma in 2017 for £34 million, has scored 250 goals in 420 appearances, placing him third on the club's all-time scoring list behind Ian Rush and Roger Hunt. His 188 Premier League goals rank him fourth in the competition's history, trailing only Alan Shearer, Harry Kane, and Wayne Rooney.
Despite his struggles this season-just four goals in 13 league appearances-Salah remains a pivotal figure. He was instrumental in Liverpool's 2024-25 Premier League title win, earning the Golden Boot with 29 goals and 18 assists. However, his recent form has raised questions about his role under Slot.
What's next for Salah?
Salah will depart for the Africa Cup of Nations on 15 December, leaving his Liverpool future in limbo. "I will be in Anfield to say goodbye to the fans and go to the Africa Cup of Nations," he said. "I don't know what is going to happen when I am there."
With his contract set to expire in 2027, Salah's next move could define the final chapter of his storied Liverpool career. For now, the 33-year-old remains adamant that he deserves better treatment. "I am not bigger than anyone, but I earned my position," he said. "It's football. It is what it is."
