The future of Mohamed Salah at Liverpool has entered its most fragile phase yet following an explosive post-match interview that sent shockwaves through the football world. The Egyptian star openly voiced his frustration, claiming he had been sidelined, marginalized, and even used as a scapegoat for the team’s recent poor form.
His comments came after he was benched for the third Premier League match in a row, with Liverpool forced to settle for a dramatic 3-3 draw against Leeds United last Sunday. It was the latest chapter in a tense period between Salah and manager Arne Slot—one that now appears to be reaching a critical breaking point.
Salah went as far as hinting to journalists that Liverpool’s upcoming clash with Brighton on December 13 could very well be his final appearance for the club before he departs for the Africa Cup of Nations. With his long-term future already uncertain, Salah’s remarks have only fueled speculation that the end of his Anfield journey may come sooner than expected.
Signs of Trouble Were Already Visible
Although Arne Slot insisted Salah had behaved professionally and trained as usual in the days leading up to the incident, multiple reports suggest the tension had been simmering beneath the surface.
According to The Athletic, the turning point occurred on Friday—one day before the match against Leeds. Several Liverpool players reportedly sensed a noticeable shift in Salah’s demeanor, describing the atmosphere around him as unusually tense.
That Friday session is believed to be the moment Salah was informed he would once again be left out of the starting lineup. The decision reportedly shocked and angered the 33-year-old forward, who felt he had been assured a larger role earlier in the season.
Teammates said they could tell “something wasn’t right,” and some even anticipated that the situation might erupt publicly.
Now, with the controversy fully exposed, the expectation is that clarity regarding Salah’s fate could arrive within the next few days as internal discussions continue at Melwood and Anfield.
Left Out of the Squad for Inter Milan Clash
If Salah’s comments left any room for doubt, Arne Slot’s next decision removed it completely. The manager officially omitted Salah from Liverpool’s Champions League squad for the midweek showdown against Inter Milan—a crucial away fixture at San Siro.
Slot confirmed in his pre-match press conference that Salah had been excluded as a direct response to his interview, stating the club had “no choice but to react.”
The exclusion ensures that Salah will not travel with the team, further deepening the divide between the player and the coaching staff. It also intensifies public debate about whether Salah has played his last game for Liverpool.
This controversy is expected to overshadow the buildup to the Inter match and dominate headlines even after the final whistle.
Growing Pressure on Arne Slot Amid Poor Results
While Salah’s outburst has taken center stage, pressure is also rapidly mounting on Arne Slot. Liverpool have won just one of their last six matches across all competitions, raising concerns about the team’s direction under the Dutchman.
Supporters, who celebrated Slot’s arrival after he delivered a Premier League title last season, are beginning to question his tactical decisions and man-management choices—especially regarding Salah. The timing of the crisis could not be worse.
Salah’s comments, in which he implied mistrust and dissatisfaction toward Slot, are likely to further strain the manager’s relationship with sections of the fanbase. Many believe Salah’s outburst reflects deeper issues within the squad, while others argue that Slot must take a hard stance to maintain control.
Nevertheless, the overall environment around Liverpool has grown increasingly unstable. Slot now faces the dual challenge of restoring results on the pitch and managing a dressing-room crisis involving one of the club’s most iconic players.
A Defining Moment Approaches
With the Africa Cup of Nations just around the corner, Liverpool must soon decide whether Salah remains part of their long-term plans or whether January becomes the beginning of a new chapter—for both player and club.
Sources close to the situation claim Salah is “deeply frustrated” and open to a new challenge, while interest from Saudi Pro League clubs continues to grow. With Liverpool now at a crossroads, a decisive moment may be approaching sooner than expected.
One thing is certain: the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining whether Mohamed Salah’s legendary era at Anfield concludes with reconciliation—or ends in bitter, unexpected fracture.
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