Liverpool are negotiating a swift return to club action for Mohamed Salah following his Africa Cup of Nations disappointment, with the forward potentially featuring in next week's crucial Champions League fixture.
From Afcon Agony to European Duty
Mohamed Salah's international campaign ended in semi-final defeat on Wednesday, as his Egypt side fell 1-0 to a Senegal team spearheaded by his former Liverpool teammate, Sadio Mané. Mané scored the decisive goal, adding a personal sting to the collective setback for Salah and his nation.
Egypt now face Nigeria in a third-place play-off in Casablanca this Saturday. Immediately after that concluding match, Salah is scheduled to fly back to Merseyside, ending a five-week absence from the club.
Slot Confirms Talks Over Speedy Reintegration
With a critical European away game against Marseille looming on Wednesday, Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has revealed the club is in active discussions with the 33-year-old forward about a rapid reintegration into the squad.
"That is something we are talking about together now," Slot stated. "He is back next week. We are in talks with him about what is expected of him over there, what is expected over here." Slot emphasised that Salah's immediate focus remains on Egypt's final match, adding, "But first of all he needs to play another big game for Egypt on Saturday."
Liverpool's Need and a Welcome Return
The urgency for Salah's return is amplified by Liverpool's current attacking options. With Alexander Isak sidelined by a leg fracture and limited alternatives on the right wing, Slot's hand may be forced.
Despite recent public tensions, where Salah accused the club of throwing him "under the bus" and suggested his relationship with Slot had broken down, the manager was unequivocal about welcoming him back. "I am happy that he comes back," Slot said. "Mo has been so important for this club, for me, so I am happy that he is back."
The Dutch coach noted that Liverpool have remained unbeaten in the 11 matches since he first dropped Salah for the trip to West Ham earlier in the season. However, he refused to divulge whether the period of international duty had helped resolve any lingering issues between player and club.
"What happens between Mo and me, on the phone or over here, stays between the two of us," Slot asserted, maintaining a firm stance on privacy. All eyes will now be on whether Salah boards the plane to the south of France, marking a pivotal moment in Liverpool's season and the player's future at Anfield.
