Liverpool’s Salah in Discussions Over Future as AFCON Participation Concludes

The Times reports that Liverpool officials are currently in discussions with Mohamed Salah as they seek clarity on the timeline for the 33-year-old winger’s return to the club for the 2025-26 campaign.

Salah is scheduled to return to Merseyside next week after representing Egypt against Nigeria on Saturday. However, a definitive date for his rejoining the squad at Anfield has not yet been established, raising ongoing questions about his future with the Premier League champions.

Before departing for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Salah openly criticized Liverpool and head coach Arne Slot, claiming he had been unfairly treated and relegated to bench duty. He expressed concerns about the breakdown of his working relationship with Slot after being omitted from a Champions League match against Inter, although he made a return for a Premier League game against Brighton, where he provided an assist after coming on as a substitute.

Liverpool has managed to maintain an impressive unbeaten streak of 11 games across all competitions during Salah’s absence, although their performances have been less than convincing. They have also faced setbacks, including a serious injury to record signing Alexander Isak.

Salah’s contributions, which include 250 goals for Liverpool, will be crucial as Slot’s squad competes on both domestic and European fronts. The team is set to travel to Marseille for their next European fixture on Tuesday, following a home match against Burnley on Saturday.

Slot has been tight-lipped regarding Salah’s potential involvement in the clash with the Ligue 1 side but confirmed that discussions are ongoing. He stated, “That is something we are talking about together now. He is back next week. We are in talks with him about what is expected of him over there, and what is expected over here. But, first of all, he needs to play another big game for Egypt on Saturday.”

“I am pleased to have him back. Mo has been so significant for this club, for me, so I am delighted to see him return. Even if I had 15 attackers, I would still be happy to have him back, but that is not our current situation.”

According to The Times, Liverpool’s management was expected to reach out to Salah’s representative, Ramy Abbas, during the AFCON tournament to address the apparent strain in their relationship. This matter remains unresolved.

Salah signed a new two-year contract in April 2025, which has 18 months remaining. However, there are speculations about the possibility of him being sold during the summer transfer window, particularly given the interest from the Saudi Pro League.

Slot is cautious about discussing Salah’s future. When asked if he had been in contact with Salah during the AFCON, he replied, “What happens between Mo and me, on the phone or over here, stays between the two of us. I don’t think it is necessary for me to share all the private conversations I have.”

Salah, having led Egypt in their AFCON pursuit, will return to Liverpool in optimal match condition. Yet, he has not started a game for the Reds since their 4-1 Champions League loss to PSV on November 26. It remains uncertain whether he will resume a starting role immediately or continue from the bench, which may impact the rebuilding of professional relationships and the execution of a lucrative deal that could solidify his decade-long service at Anfield.