Arne Slot says he sees “no reasons not to want Mohamed Salah to stay” at Liverpool as he prepares for further discussions with the forward on Friday morning regarding his involvement this weekend.
Salah sparked controversy after Saturday’s draw with Leeds United, claiming he had been “thrown under the bus” by the club. He was then left out of the squad for Tuesday’s Champions League fixture against Inter Milan. The 33-year-old also insisted he had “earned his place” in the side during post-match interviews at Elland Road.
Asked about Salah’s future—having signed a two-year extension in April—Slot was clear: “I have no reasons to not want him to stay.” He added: “I will have a conversation with Mo. The outcome of that conversation determines how things will look on Saturday.”
Liverpool host Brighton at Anfield at 15:00 GMT on Saturday, aiming to respond after back-to-back league draws. Salah has been an unused substitute in two of Liverpool’s last three Premier League matches, last featuring in the 1-1 draw with Sunderland on 3 December. His most recent start came on 26 November in the Champions League loss to PSV Eindhoven.
Slot confirmed ongoing discussions between Salah, his representatives and the club hierarchy, particularly following the Sunderland match.
Salah is due to leave for the Africa Cup of Nations on Monday and may not return until after the tournament concludes on 18 January, depending on Egypt’s progression. He has scored five goals in 18 appearances across the Premier League and Champions League this season.
On Monday, Slot admitted he had “no clue” whether Salah had already played his final game for Liverpool, though he emphasised his belief in players returning to the group after moments of tension.
Salah was strongly linked with a move to Saudi Arabia last summer, and interest remains. Saudi Pro League chief executive Omar Mugharbel confirmed this week that the Egyptian winger remains a target across the division.
During Friday’s news conference, Slot was repeatedly questioned about his relationship with Salah and the extent of his autonomy in selection decisions. He responded: “We decided as a club— and I was part of that decision— not to take him to Milan. I am always in contact with Richard Hughes and Michael Edwards, but when it comes to the decision-making for the line-up or squad, they leave that open to me.”
