The future of Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah at Anfield has been thrown into serious doubt following an explosive post-match interview on Saturday, casting a shadow over the club's preparations for a crucial Champions League tie.
Salah's Explosive Elland Road Comments
After being left out of the starting lineup for a third consecutive game in Liverpool's 3-3 draw at Leeds United, the Egyptian international launched a startling public critique. Salah, 33, accused the club of having "thrown him under a bus" and revealed he no longer has a relationship with head coach Arne Slot.
The interview has sent shockwaves through the club, with senior figures reportedly holding discussions on Sunday. Salah attended training as normal, but the hierarchy has so far refrained from a public statement to avoid inflaming the situation further.
Immediate Decision for Slot and Saudi Interest Looms
Arne Slot now faces an immediate and significant selection headache. He must decide whether to include the disillusioned forward in his squad for Tuesday's Champions League trip to face Inter Milan at the San Siro. Omitting the club's third-highest all-time goalscorer from such a pivotal match would be a monumental call.
Beyond the immediate fallout, Salah's long-term position at Liverpool appears increasingly precarious. With 19 months remaining on his £400,000-a-week contract, the situation is ripe for a potential exit. Saudi Pro League clubs are expected to renew their interest when the transfer window reopens next month.
Al-Ittihad, who saw a £150 million bid rejected in September 2023, and rivals Al-Hilal are both believed to be keen on securing the superstar's signature. Salah's comments at Elland Road hinted he may have played his final game for the Reds, a prospect that now seems more plausible.
Uncertainty Over Upcoming Fixtures
The timing of the controversy is far from ideal for Liverpool. Following Monday's training session at their AXA base in Kirkby, the squad will fly to Italy where Slot will inevitably face intense questioning at a pre-Inter press conference.
It remains unclear if Salah will feature against Brighton at Anfield this weekend before he is due to report for Africa Cup of Nations duty with Egypt next Monday. His immediate involvement in Liverpool's plans hangs in the balance as the club grapples with one of the biggest internal crises of the modern era.
The Egyptian Football Association has already publicly backed their captain via social media, but the damage to his relationship with Liverpool's management may already be done. This saga represents a stark and sudden rupture for a player once considered untouchable at Anfield.
