Former Liverpool defender James Carragher has admitted that the possibility of Mohamed Salah leaving Anfield during the January 2026 transfer window is becoming increasingly realistic. Ongoing internal turbulence at Liverpool this season has placed the Egyptian star’s future under renewed scrutiny, despite his continued importance on the pitch.
Salah remains one of Liverpool’s most influential players, but recent developments behind the scenes have raised questions about how long the club and player can continue together. With interest from abroad growing and tensions surfacing publicly, the January window could prove decisive.
Arne Slot’s Decision Offers Brief Stability
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot made a notable decision last weekend by restoring Mohamed Salah to the starting lineup against Brighton. The move was widely viewed as a positive step, easing speculation that the relationship between manager and star winger had completely broken down.
Salah’s inclusion suggested that, at least professionally, both parties remain committed to achieving results on the pitch. His performance underlined why he is still considered indispensable when Liverpool need attacking quality and experience.
However, while Slot’s decision helped calm immediate concerns, it has not fully extinguished the wider uncertainty surrounding Liverpool’s internal situation. Sources close to the club suggest that unresolved issues remain, particularly regarding long-term squad planning and leadership dynamics.
A Contract Extension That Failed to End the Drama
In April, Mohamed Salah signed a two-year contract extension, seemingly putting an end to months of speculation about his future. The deal was seen as a statement of intent from Liverpool, reaffirming Salah’s status as a cornerstone of the team.
Yet, despite the extension, tensions have resurfaced. Salah recently made headlines with comments suggesting he felt he had been “thrown under the bus” by the club during a difficult period. Those remarks reignited debate about his relationship with Liverpool’s hierarchy and whether trust has been fully restored.
For many observers, the episode highlighted deeper issues within the club rather than a simple disagreement. It also reopened the door to transfer rumors that had been dormant since the contract renewal.
James Carragher: Liverpool May Choose the Safe Option
Speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, James Carragher offered a candid assessment of the situation. The former Liverpool defender believes the club could ultimately decide that selling Salah in January is the most pragmatic solution, provided the financial terms are right.
“I think if Liverpool receive the money they want, they might let him go,” Carragher said. “They may feel they don’t want to keep dealing with the complications and the ongoing drama.”
Carragher acknowledged Salah’s exceptional quality and influence but suggested that stability could become a priority for Liverpool’s leadership. With a new managerial era under Arne Slot still taking shape, minimizing distractions may be viewed as essential.
Despite his analysis, Carragher was clear about his personal stance. He expressed hope that Salah would remain at Anfield at least until the end of the season.
“I’d like him to stay,” he added. “I think he deserves a better send-off and he can still make a huge difference between now and the end of the campaign.”
AFCON Duty Adds Another Layer of Uncertainty
As speculation intensifies, Mohamed Salah is set to represent Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). His involvement in the tournament will see him miss at least three Premier League matches, creating a challenging period for Liverpool.
Salah’s absence during a crucial stretch of the season adds complexity to the club’s decision-making. On one hand, selling him in January would mean losing their talisman permanently. On the other, Liverpool will already be forced to cope without him temporarily due to international duty.
For Arne Slot, this period could serve as an unintended test of life without Salah. How Liverpool perform during his absence may influence the club’s stance on whether they can afford to let him leave.
Saudi Pro League Interest Continues to Grow
Fueling the uncertainty is ongoing interest from the Saudi Pro League, where several clubs are reportedly prepared to make lucrative offers for Salah. The financial power of Saudi teams means Liverpool could receive a bid difficult to ignore, particularly given Salah’s age and contract timeline.
From Salah’s perspective, a move could represent a new challenge and a significant commercial opportunity. From Liverpool’s standpoint, a January sale could provide funds to reinvest in younger talent aligned with Slot’s long-term vision.
However, selling such a globally recognized figure mid-season would not be without risk. Salah remains a symbol of Liverpool’s modern success, and his departure could have both sporting and emotional consequences.
A Defining Decision Looms for Liverpool
As January 2026 approaches, Liverpool face a defining moment. Keeping Mohamed Salah could ensure continued competitiveness and allow him to leave on his own terms. Letting him go, however, might bring clarity and financial flexibility at a time of transition.
For now, Salah remains focused on delivering performances on the pitch, while the club publicly maintains its support. Yet behind closed doors, discussions are ongoing, and the margin for error is narrowing.
Whether Mohamed Salah stays or departs in January, one thing is clear: the decision will shape not only Liverpool’s season but also the legacy of one of the club’s greatest modern players.
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