Mohamed Salah is expected to return to Liverpool’s matchday squad for Saturday’s Premier League fixture against Brighton following what have been described as behind-the-scenes peace talks with head coach Arne Slot.
The development comes just days after the Egyptian star sparked widespread controversy with a blunt post-match interview following Liverpool’s dramatic 3–3 draw with Leeds United. In the interview, Salah said he had been “thrown under the bus” and claimed he had “no relationship” with Slot, remarks that fuelled intense speculation about his future at Anfield. He was subsequently omitted entirely from the squad for Tuesday’s 1–0 victory over Inter Milan.
Despite the fallout, reports from The Guardian indicate that the 33-year-old forward has now been recalled for the Brighton game. His return is particularly notable as he is expected to leave for the Africa Cup of Nations immediately after the match.
Salah has not started any of Liverpool’s last four games and has struggled for form during a difficult period for the club. Liverpool currently sit 10th in the Premier League after 15 matches, a sharp contrast to last season when they won the title in Slot’s first year in charge.
While it remains unclear whether Salah has privately apologised to the manager, sources suggest discussions have taken place, although details have not been disclosed. His comments after the Leeds match dominated headlines and attracted criticism, including from Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher.
Speaking in the mixed zone after the draw, Salah said: “I could not believe I was sitting on the bench for 90 minutes. That’s the third time. It’s the first time in my career I think.
“[I am] very disappointed, I have done so much for this club over the years, especially last season. It seems like the club has thrown me under the bus. That’s how I feel.
“Someone wants me to get all the blame. The club promised me a lot in summer. Now I’m on the bench so I can say they haven’t kept those promises.
“I used to have a good relationship [with manager Slot]. Now we don’t have any relationship and I don’t know why.”
Carragher condemned the interview, saying: “I thought it was a disgrace what he did after the game.
“I think whenever Mo Salah stops in the mixed zone, which he’s done four times in eight years at Liverpool, it’s choreographed between him and his agent to cause maximum damage and to strengthen his own position.”
Salah has faced criticism this season over a perceived drop in intensity, although Slot previously reduced his defensive responsibilities after replacing Jurgen Klopp. Despite recent tensions, the forward remains one of Liverpool’s greatest players, with 250 goals and 116 assists in 420 appearances.
Since joining from Roma in 2017, Salah has helped Liverpool win two Premier League titles, the Champions League, FA Cup, Carabao Cup, Club World Cup, Super Cup and Community Shield, cementing his legacy as a modern club icon.
