Arne Slot, coach of Liverpool, scheduled a conversation with striker The measure comes after Salah’s public discontent with his reduced playing time in the team’s last three commitments. Liverpool, currently ninth in the English league, faces pressure to resolve the impasse before the break for Copa Africana from Nações.
The 33-year-old Egyptian, who signed a two-year contract extension in April, has scored five goals in 18 matches this season, between Premier League and Champions League. Sua absence in the 1-0 victory over Inter of Milão, on Tuesday, in
Slot stated that he sees no reason for Salah to leave and hopes that the dialogue will define the next steps. “I will talk to him this morning, and the result will determine what happens tomorrow,” the Dutchman told a press conference.
- Salah’s main recent absences: draws against Sunderland and Leeds United, in addition to the trip to Itália.
- Alleged reason: tactical adaptation for greater defensive compactness in the team.
- Immediate impact: Liverpool have drawn three of their last five league games.
Read a full transcript from Arne Slot’s pre-#LIVBHApress conference this morning 💬
—Liverpool FC (@LFC)December 12, 2025
Tense phase of Salah in the attack
Salah has not started as a starter since November 26, in the defeat to PSV in the Champions League. Sua last entry was in the second half against Sunderland, on December 3, without decisive goals or assists. The striker expressed frustration after the 3-3 draw with Leeds, stating that he had been “abandoned” by the club and that he had earned his place in the team.
The board of directors of Liverpool, including sporting director Richard Hughes and CEO Michael Edwards, consulted with Slot in the decision to delist Salah for Não there was disciplinary punishment, but the focus is to reassess the situation before the confrontation in Anfield.
The Dutchman highlighted that multiple conversations have taken place between representatives of Salah and the club in recent weeks. “There were dialogues between him and me, and between our agents”, explained Slot, reinforcing the intention of maintaining balance in the cast.
Slot statements about the future
Slot avoided speculation about a possible departure for Salah in January, the transfer window that opens soon. The coach denied that the situation compromises his authority, stating: “I’m not weak, and decisions are technical.” Ele suggested that the attacker may need to take initiative to resolve the conflict, but considered that the criticism came at a time of tension.
Liverpool is looking for stability amid an irregular campaign, with just four wins in the last ten games in all competitions. Salah, the third highest scorer in the club’s history with 250 goals, is seen as a key player, but his recent form has sparked internal debate.
Sources close to the squad indicate that the pressure for results could influence the lineup against Brighton. Slot prioritizes group cohesion, especially with Africa Cup of Nations approaching from December 21st to January 18th at Marrocos.
The possible reconciliation depends on the tone of this Friday’s conversation, which could include discussions about Salah’s role in the team’s long-term project.
Recent absences and numbers of Salah
The exclusion of Salah reflects tactical adjustments by Slot, who opted for greater defensive balance in recent matches. Liverpool conceded goals in four of the five games without the Egyptian as a starter, but also showed compactness on the field.
- Salah goals in the season: five in 18 total games.
- Assists: three, with the last one in November against PSV.
- Comparison with 2024-25: 29 goals in Premier League, against four so far in 13 rounds.
The striker, who renewed in April to extend his stay until 2027, faces speculation about a return to Arábia Saudita. Clubes as well as Al Hilal have expressed persistent interest, especially after rejecting a £150m offer from Al Ittihad in 2023.
Slot downplayed the rumors, focusing on the collective performance. “Everyone makes mistakes, and the important thing is to recognize that,” said the coach, without confirming whether an apology from Salah would be necessary for the return.
The club is monitoring the emotional impact on the squad, which faced a week of draws and external criticism.
Context of the crisis in Liverpool
Salah’s discontent comes at a time of transition for Liverpool, which has lost pieces like Trent Alexander-Arnold to Real Madrid and Luis Díaz in recent negotiations. Essas departures affected the balance of the attack, with Salah feeling the lack of consolidated partnerships, such as Alexander-Arnold’s 147 decisive passes in the last Premier League.
The team occupies 13th place in the Champions league phase and ninth in Premier League, outside the European classification zone. Slot implemented changes for a more compact game, moving Dominik Szoboszlai to the right wing for his defensive contribution.
Analysts point out that the pressure on Salah as a scapegoat is unfair, given the collective context. The Egyptian supported his teammates in training, maintaining professionalism despite his absence in Milão.
Friday’s conversation could reset the mood, with Slot emphasizing the possibility of feedback for any player who recognizes mistakes. The immediate focus is the game against Brighton, the last one before Salah is called up to the Egyptian national team.
Possible substitutes and market
Speculations about the future of Salah include options such as Antoine Semenyo, from Bournemouth, as an immediate reinforcement if there is an exit in January. Liverpool plans to reinvest in a replacement that adapts to Slot’s style, prioritizing versatility.
At Arábia Saudita, interest remains high, with Al Hilal primed for substantial offers. However, the English club rules out a forced transfer, valuing the historic contribution of Salah.
Slot reinforced that there are no plans to release the striker, but this Friday’s dialogue will be pivotal. “I have no reason not to want him to stay”, reiterated the coach, leaving room for resolution.
The cast trains in Kirkby this Friday, with Salah integrated into the group, signaling apparent normality.
Rumors and reactions in the locker room
Internal reactions within Liverpool vary, with veterans like Virgil van Dijk supporting Slot in the search for balance. The absence of Salah in Milão was seen as a measure to avoid distractions, but it sparked debates about loyalty to the idol.
Jamie Carragher, a former player at the club, criticized Salah’s statements as selfish, but acknowledged their historical impact. The locker room feels the emotional toll, with Slot admitting relief after the win at Champions.
The possible lineup against Brighton depends on the outcome of the meeting, which could include contract adjustments or guaranteed minutes. Salah, in turn, posted a training image on Instagram, focusing on physical preparation.
The incident highlights management challenges in elite teams, where egos and results collide.
Preparation for Africa Cup
Salah will report to the Egyptian squad after Saturday’s game, aiming for Copa Africana from Nações at Marrocos. The tournament, from December 21st to January 18th, can serve as a pause to reflect on your future in the Liverpool.
Slot plans to maintain focus on Premier League during his absence, with Liverpool seeking positive follow-through. This Friday’s conversation aims to align expectations, avoiding prolongation of the crisis.
The Dutch coach, in his first full season, faces a leadership test with the Salah case. Recent Decisões, such as the victory over Inter, show resilience, but cohesion is essential for recovery.
