Arne Slot Uncertain About Mohamed Salah’s Future with Liverpool

Liverpool manager Arne Slot expressed uncertainty regarding Mohamed Salah’s future with the club. The Egyptian forward was notably absent from the squad for their Champions League match against Inter Milan after making controversial remarks following a recent game against Leeds United.

Slot’s Concerns Over Salah’s Comments

In the wake of a tense 3-3 draw with Leeds, Salah claimed that Liverpool had “thrown him under the bus,” implying a breakdown in communication with the coach. Slot commented on the situation, stating he has “no clue” whether Salah has played his last game for Liverpool.

“I cannot answer that question at this point in time,” Slot remarked during a pre-match press conference. “There is always a possibility for a player to return.” Despite the tensions, he noted the need to focus on the upcoming match against Inter.

Communication Breakdown

Slot expressed surprise regarding Salah’s comments about their relationship, countering that he felt no such fracture. “I haven’t felt that at all until Saturday evening,” he elaborated. While acknowledging that players often express discontent when not included in matches, he stressed that Salah had been respectful during training.

• Slot described his communication with Salah as a “short” conversation prior to the Inter game.
• Salah had trained at Kirkby but was informed he would not travel to Italy.
• “The only one who can answer that is Mo himself,” Slot stated when asked if Salah’s comments were directed at him.

Impact on Team’s Performance

With just four wins from their last 15 games, Salah’s absence is a significant blow to the team’s attacking lineup. Alongside Salah, Federico Chiesa (illness) and Cody Gakpo (injury) were also unable to make the trip, further limiting options for the Champions League clash.

Slot acknowledged the unfortunate timing of Chiesa’s illness, stating, “If he has an amazing recovery, he might travel tomorrow. But that’s not what I expect.” Meanwhile, Gakpo’s injury is expected to sideline him for several weeks.

The upcoming match against Inter is crucial as Liverpool aims to turn their fortunes around amid ongoing challenges in performance and squad depth.