Salah’s Return Framed as Straightforward Call

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot played down any suggestion of internal tension after including Mohamed Salah in his matchday squad against Brighton, describing the decision as “simple” and insisting there was nothing to fix.

The Egyptian forward made his first appearance for the Reds since remarks last week in which he suggested he had been “thrown under the bus” following a dramatic 3–3 draw with Leeds.

Impact Off the Bench at Anfield

Salah entered the game earlier than expected, replacing Joe Gomez in the 26th minute after the defender picked up an injury. His introduction was met with loud applause from the Anfield crowd, signalling continued support from the fans.

He quickly made his presence felt, delivering the corner that led to Hugo Ekitike’s second goal in Liverpool’s 2–0 victory. Moments later, chants bearing his name echoed around the stadium.

Slot Praises Salah’s Influence

Speaking after the match, Slot said whatever had been discussed privately between him and Salah would remain behind closed doors.

“He was involved straight away,” Slot explained. “The first ball he touched nearly resulted in an assist, and he was dangerous throughout. That’s not a surprise — he’s delivered that level many times before.”

Missed Chances but Strong Performance

Salah had opportunities to add a goal of his own, firing one effort over the bar and later misjudging a pass intended for Andy Robertson. Despite that, his overall contribution drew praise, and he acknowledged supporters with a full lap of the pitch after the final whistle.

Afcon Departure Clouds Immediate Future

Uncertainty still surrounds Salah’s longer-term future at Liverpool. The 33-year-old is set to leave for international duty with Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations on Monday, a period that coincides with the January transfer window.

Saudi Pro League clubs have maintained interest in the forward, and a potential move while he is away cannot be ruled out. Slot, however, declined to speculate.

Squad Challenges for Liverpool

Slot acknowledged that Salah’s absence at Afcon will stretch an already thin squad. “We knew before the season started that Mo would go,” he said, adding that Liverpool are hoping injured players return to ease the strain.

Salah also missed Liverpool’s midweek Champions League trip to Inter Milan, which only added fuel to speculation about his status.

Teammates Voice Support

Full-back Milos Kerkez was quick to defend his teammate, praising Salah’s energy and influence.

“Everyone knows what Mo means to this club,” Kerkez said. “He helps us, supports us, and the mood in the squad is good. We respect him and we’re happy he’s here.”

Legacy and Contract Situation

Salah remains one of Liverpool’s greatest modern players, sitting third on the club’s all-time scoring list with 250 goals in 421 appearances. Despite that, he has now gone five matches without starting.

He has 18 months remaining on the contract he signed in April, and Liverpool previously rejected a £150m bid from Al-Ittihad in 2023.

What Comes Next

Salah previously hinted that the Brighton match could be a farewell before departing for Afcon, saying he wanted to say goodbye to supporters. Earlier in the week, Slot admitted he did not know if Salah had already played his final game for the club.

Following improved dialogue between player and manager, Salah was reinstated for Saturday’s match. His agent, Ramy Abbas, is expected to hold talks with Liverpool officials while Salah is away on international duty.