Liverpool midfielders Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones have moved quickly to calm speculation that tensions between Mohamed Salah and head coach Arne Slot have disrupted the squad’s unity. Following Liverpool’s crucial 1–0 victory over Inter Milan in the Champions League, both players emphasized that the situation surrounding Salah’s future is a personal matter and has not impacted day-to-day relations within the dressing room.
The controversy erupted after Salah openly criticized Slot and the club in the aftermath of Liverpool’s inconsistent run of results between September and November 2025. The Egyptian forward expressed frustration at what he felt was unfair treatment and questioned whether Sunday’s match against Brighton could be his last at Anfield before departing for the Africa Cup of Nations.
His comments quickly spread across media outlets and social platforms, prompting concerns over a possible rift within the squad. Yet Szoboszlai and Jones insist that the atmosphere inside Liverpool’s camp remains stable.
Szoboszlai: “His career decisions are his own”
Szoboszlai, widely regarded as one of Salah’s closest friends at the club, made it clear that he views the situation as completely personal and unrelated to team chemistry.
“I’m very close to him. But it’s his life and his career,” the Hungarian captain told reporters after the win in Milan.
Szoboszlai also rejected suggestions that players have taken sides or become involved in the dispute. Instead, he reiterated that the squad remains focused on its collective objectives.
Ironically, Szoboszlai directly benefited from Salah’s absence at the San Siro: with Liverpool awarded a late penalty in the 88th minute, he was the one entrusted with the responsibility—converting coolly to secure a vital Champions League win.
The goal lifted the tension around Liverpool temporarily and shifted the conversation back to on-field matters, even as discussions about Salah’s long-term future remain unresolved.
Curtis Jones: “The dressing room is still strong”
Curtis Jones, who delivered one of his best performances of the season in Slot’s diamond-midfield system against Inter, also dismissed any notion of unrest within the squad. Jones explained that Salah’s comments—while unexpected—had not disrupted the team’s focus.
“Mo is Mo. I can’t speak for someone else’s personal situation. Everyone knows how much of a legend he is,” Jones told reporters.
He added that the win over Inter Milan was crucial for rebuilding momentum after the chaotic 3–3 draw against Leeds United and the media storm that followed Salah’s remarks.
When asked whether the team still fully supports Arne Slot, Jones responded without hesitation:
“We’re always behind him.”
Jones spoke highly of Slot’s influence, praising his tactical clarity and the energy he brings to the squad.
“If we lose, it affects him, it affects us, and the fans. But he’s positive, he’s brought new ideas, a new style of play. He wants to win as much as we do.”
Liverpool Keep Focus Despite Growing External Drama
Although Mohamed Salah’s dispute with the club has overshadowed recent headlines, Liverpool’s performance against Inter showed a team capable of separating internal issues from performance on the pitch.
Slot’s tactical adjustments—particularly his shift toward a more fluid, press-resistant midfield—have produced encouraging signs. Liverpool are now unbeaten in four matches and beginning to regain consistency at a crucial point in the season.
Yet the Salah saga still looms large. With only one match left before his departure for the Africa Cup of Nations, questions about his long-term relationship with Slot, and whether he will sign a new contract or push for a January move, continue to fuel debate among fans and pundits.
Salah has attracted significant interest from Saudi Pro League clubs ahead of the January 2026 transfer window, and while Liverpool have not ruled out a sale, the club is also aware of his immense importance—both commercially and on the pitch.
Unity Over Uncertainty
For now, Szoboszlai and Jones serve as the calming voices within the squad, insisting that dressing-room harmony is intact despite the growing external noise.
Their message is clear:
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Salah’s personal decisions are respected.
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The players are focused on performance, not politics.
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The team stands firmly behind Arne Slot.
Liverpool will hope that this unity translates into results as they approach a demanding stretch of fixtures. While the future of Mohamed Salah remains uncertain, the Reds appear determined to keep their focus where it matters most: on the pitch.
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