Mohamed Salah’s situation at Liverpool has once again become a major talking point ahead of this weekend’s Premier League action. After being left out of the squad for the UEFA Champions League clash against Inter Milan, the Egyptian forward has been recalled to the matchday list for Liverpool’s home fixture against Brighton & Hove Albion at Anfield.
The decision was made directly by Liverpool head coach Arne Slot amid a tense internal atmosphere at the club. As widely reported, Salah publicly voiced his frustration following Liverpool’s 3–3 draw with Leeds United at Elland Road, where he spent the entire match on the bench. His comments, in which he suggested he had been made a scapegoat and claimed his relationship with Slot was “broken,” sent shockwaves through the fanbase and media.
Speculation quickly intensified, ranging from the possibility of a prolonged rift between player and coach to renewed rumors of a potential January transfer exit. However, with Brighton visiting Anfield, Liverpool appear determined to calm the storm. Salah has been brought back into the squad, even though reports suggest the relationship between him and Slot has not yet fully thawed.
Slot’s Decision Follows Internal Consultations
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Arne Slot did not make the decision to recall Salah in isolation. Instead, the Dutch coach held discussions with senior club officials and several experienced players within the squad before finalizing his choice.
Those talks were aimed at assessing the mood inside the dressing room after last week’s public fallout. Sources suggest that for much of the week’s training sessions, Liverpool prepared as if Salah would not be involved against Brighton. His absence was seen as a real possibility as Slot weighed the potential impact of reintroducing such a high-profile figure amid unresolved tension.
Ultimately, Slot opted to include Salah in the squad, prioritizing stability and unity over prolonging the standoff. Interestingly, reports indicate that there has still been no direct, one-on-one conversation between Slot and Salah since the controversial interview. Instead, intermediaries within the club are believed to have helped smooth the immediate situation to ensure focus remains on the upcoming fixture.
A Significant Match Before AFCON Duty
The Brighton game carries additional significance as it is set to be Mohamed Salah’s final appearance for Liverpool before he departs to represent Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025. The 33-year-old winger is expected to join the Egyptian national team shortly after the weekend and may not return to Merseyside until mid-January.
This looming international break has influenced Liverpool’s handling of the situation. Club insiders suggest that the AFCON period will be used as a cooling-off window, allowing emotions to settle before more serious internal discussions about Salah’s long-term future take place.
For Salah himself, the match offers an opportunity to make a statement on the pitch rather than in front of microphones. Ending his Liverpool spell for the year on a positive note could help restore some goodwill with supporters and teammates alike.
Performance Under the Microscope
Beyond the off-field drama, Salah’s on-field performances this season have also come under scrutiny. By his own lofty standards, his output has been below expectations. Across 19 appearances in all competitions, he has registered just five goals and three assists.
While those numbers would be respectable for many players, they represent a notable dip for a footballer who has consistently delivered elite-level production since arriving at Anfield. Salah’s reduced influence has coincided with Liverpool’s uneven form, adding further pressure on both player and manager.
Slot has previously hinted that tactical adjustments and rotation are part of a broader plan to refresh the squad. However, benching Salah in a high-profile league match — followed by his omission from the Champions League squad — was always going to attract intense attention.
Liverpool’s Bigger Picture Concerns
Liverpool’s struggles extend beyond Salah’s individual situation. Despite being reigning Premier League champions, the Reds have endured an inconsistent campaign so far. After 15 league matches, they have collected just 23 points and currently trail league leaders Arsenal by 10 points.
Dropped points, defensive lapses, and a lack of cutting edge in key moments have raised questions about Liverpool’s title credentials. In this context, reintegrating a proven match-winner like Salah could be crucial, even if the internal dynamics are far from ideal.
For Slot, the Brighton match represents a delicate balancing act. Starting Salah could provide the attacking spark Liverpool desperately need, but it also risks reopening wounds if tensions resurface. Leaving him on the bench, on the other hand, could inflame speculation and frustrate supporters eager to see their star player back in action.
A Test of Leadership for Arne Slot
How Arne Slot manages the situation in the coming weeks may prove defining for his tenure at Liverpool. Handling high-profile personalities is part of the job at an elite club, and Salah’s status as a global icon only amplifies the challenge.
By recalling Salah for the Brighton clash, Liverpool have signaled a desire to prioritize short-term harmony and on-field results. Whether this move leads to genuine reconciliation or merely a temporary truce remains to be seen.
What is certain is that all eyes will be on Anfield this weekend — not just for the result, but for every touch, gesture, and decision involving Mohamed Salah. As Liverpool look to steady their season and quiet internal noise, the Egyptian star once again finds himself at the center of the story.
ALSO READ :
