Liverpool manager Arne Slot has confirmed that Mohamed Salah has been left out of the Liverpool Squad for the upcoming Champions League match against Inter Milan. The decision comes after Salah gave an explosive interview claiming he was “thrown under the bus” by the club and suggesting his relationship with Slot had deteriorated. While this exclusion has attracted widespread attention, the club has clarified that no formal disciplinary action will be taken against the Egyptian forward.
Salah, 33, who signed a two-year contract extension with Liverpool in April, has been a talisman for the Reds since joining from Roma in 2017. Despite this, he has started on the bench for Liverpool’s last three matches, including the 3-3 draw with Leeds United. His form this season has been below his usual standards, with five goals in 18 appearances across the Premier League and Champions League.
Liverpool’s squad for the Inter Milan match will also be missing other key players. Forwards Cody Gakpo and Federico Chiesa, along with defensive midfielder Wataru Endo, are unavailable for selection. Salah is expected to depart for the Africa Cup of Nations next Monday, which may also result in him missing Liverpool’s home Premier League game against Brighton.
Slot’s Perspective and Club’s Stance
Liverpool manager Arne Slot addressed the situation at a press conference in Milan, emphasizing that he does not feel undermined by Salah’s comments. Slot described his conversation with Salah about the exclusion as “short” and stated that he remains calm and polite, but is not weak when it comes to managing the squad. He also highlighted that the club reacted appropriately to Salah’s public statements, leaving the door open for the player’s eventual return.
Slot added that he is a firm believer in giving players the possibility to return after a period away from selection. Despite Salah suggesting that his relationship with the manager had broken down, Slot maintains that the situation is manageable and hopes for a resolution that benefits both the player and Liverpool Squad as a whole.
Goalkeeper Alisson Becker also commented on the situation, expressing support for both Salah and the manager. He emphasized that the Liverpool Squad wants the best for the club and for Salah, and hopes the Egyptian forward will return after the Africa Cup of Nations. Alisson’s remarks reflect the broader sentiment within the team, highlighting unity and professionalism amid the media attention surrounding Salah’s comments.
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Salah’s Form and Career Highlights
Salah has scored 250 goals in 420 appearances for Liverpool since joining from Roma in 2017. Despite a slow start this season, with just five goals in 18 appearances, Salah remains one of the club’s key figures. His last start was in a 4-1 defeat against PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League, and his last goal came in a 2-0 win over Aston Villa.
Slot and senior players, including goalkeeper Alisson, have publicly backed the forward while affirming support for the manager’s authority. Alisson stated, “We hope the best for him and the club and want a win-win situation for everyone.”
Liverpool’s decision to temporarily exclude Salah reflects a balance between managing player discipline and maintaining squad harmony. The move allows Salah to take time away from selection while protecting the team from potential disruption. Analysts note that the situation is sensitive due to Salah’s status as a talismanic figure and the club’s ambition in the Champions League and domestic competitions.
FAQs:
Q1: Why was Mohamed Salah left out of the Liverpool Squad for Inter Milan?
A1: Salah was excluded due to his strained relationship with manager Arne Slot.
Q2: Will Mohamed Salah face any disciplinary action?
A2: No, Liverpool have confirmed that Salah will not face formal disciplinary action.
Q3: When could Mohamed Salah return to the Liverpool Squad?
A3: Salah could return after his participation in the Africa Cup of Nations, depending on the club’s selection decisions.
Q4: How has Mohamed Salah performed this season?
A4: Salah has scored five goals in 18 appearances across the Premier League and Champions League.
Q5: Who else is missing from Liverpool Squad for the Inter Milan game?
A5: Cody Gakpo, Federico Chiesa, and Wataru Endo are also absent from the squad.
Q6: How many goals has Mohamed Salah scored for Liverpool overall?
A6: Salah has scored 250 goals in 420 appearances for Liverpool since 2017.
Q7: Is there a possibility of Salah leaving Liverpool in January?
A7: While there have been rumors, Salah still has 18 months left on his contract, and the club remains in control of his future.
