Liverpool manager Arne Slot has publicly stated his eagerness to reintegrate star forward Mohamed Salah into the squad, following the conclusion of Egypt's Africa Cup of Nations campaign. This comes after a period of public tension between the player and the club.
Slot's Unwavering Welcome for Salah
Speaking ahead of Liverpool's Premier League match against Burnley this Saturday, Slot was unequivocal about Salah's importance. The Dutch coach emphasized that he would welcome the 33-year-old back "even if I had 15 attackers." He acknowledged Salah's crucial role, stating, "Mo has been so important for this club, for me, so I'm happy that he's back."
This public show of support follows a difficult period last month when Salah gave an explosive interview. The Egyptian international accused Liverpool of throwing him "under the bus" after being benched for three consecutive games and claimed to have no relationship with Slot.
Moving Past the Controversy
The rift appeared to begin healing when Salah came off the bench to provide an assist in a 2-0 Premier League victory against Brighton on December 13. Slot later indicated the club had moved on from the controversy. When pressed about the details of his conversations with Salah, Slot remained discreet. "I think what happens between Mo and me on our phone or over here stays between the two of us," he said during his pre-match press conference.
Salah's immediate focus is on Egypt's third-place play-off match against Nigeria in Morocco on Saturday. Slot confirmed that the player is expected to return to Merseyside next week. "We're in talks with him, what is expected of him over there and what we expect over here," Slot added, outlining the plan for his return.
Liverpool's Season on the Upswing
Salah's return is seen as a potential boost for a Liverpool side that is finally finding consistency. After a disastrous run of six defeats in seven league matches starting in late September that derailed their title defence, Slot has steadied the ship. The team is now unbeaten in 11 games across all competitions.
"I can see the players growing, they get more and more belief again, and they're getting better, fitter," Slot observed, expressing optimism for the remainder of the season. The Reds face Marseille in the Champions League on Wednesday before a Premier League trip to Bournemouth next weekend, fixtures where Salah's firepower could be crucial.
Despite winning the Premier League Golden Boot with 29 league goals last season, Salah has managed only four in the current campaign. His return from international duty presents an opportunity to rediscover his prolific form and help Liverpool build on their recent improved run.
