Mohamed Salah's future at Liverpool is suddenly uncertain after a reported stunning rant against manager Arne Slot, fueling speculation of a potential January exit. The Egyptian star has voiced his frustration with the club, accusing them of unfair treatment after being benched for three consecutive matches. This unprecedented situation has seemingly fractured his relationship with the new head coach and left the Anfield faithful reeling.
Salah's discontent reportedly reached a boiling point after the recent 3-3 draw against Leeds United, where he remained an unused substitute. This marked the first time in his Liverpool career, spanning 420 games, that he has been left out of the starting lineup for three consecutive matches. "I have done so much for this club down the years, and especially last season. Now I'm sitting on the bench, and I don't know why," Salah stated, expressing his bewilderment and disappointment.
The Liverpool star didn't hold back in expressing his feelings about broken promises made during the summer. "I got a lot of promises in the summer, and so far I am on the bench for three games, so I can't say they keep the promises," he revealed, suggesting a growing rift between him and Liverpool's management.
Adding fuel to the fire, Salah explicitly stated that he currently has "no relationship" with Arne Slot, a stark contrast to what he described as a previously good dynamic. He feels that the club is deliberately trying to undermine him and shift the blame for the team's poor performances onto his shoulders. "I feel the club is sacrificing me. I did so much for them and this is how I am treated," Salah reportedly said.
The situation has prompted strong reactions, with many interpreting Salah's actions after the Leeds United game as a farewell gesture. After the final whistle, with Liverpool fans chanting his name, Salah walked towards the supporters, applauded, touched his chest, and made what appeared to be a goodbye. He also mentioned that he had called his mother to attend the upcoming match against Brighton, stating, "I will enjoy it whether I play or not. I will say goodbye before going to AFCON. I don't know what happens after that". When directly asked if the Brighton game could be his last for Liverpool, Salah responded, "Nothing is guaranteed in football. I don't accept what is happening to me".
While Slot seeks to downplay any major rift, he confirmed that Salah remains central to his plans, stating, "He is always in my mind to either start or to come off the bench". However, the reality of Salah watching from the bench amid poor team form paints a different picture. Liverpool are currently struggling in the Premier League, sitting eighth in the table after winning only two of their last ten games.
Salah's potential departure would be a significant blow to Liverpool, impacting the team's dynamics and performance. His current contract runs until 2027, but with the growing tension and reported interest from Saudi Arabian clubs, a January move cannot be ruled out. While a £150m bid was rebuffed in 2023, any future offer would likely be lower for an aging Salah, although the financial power and interest remain undeniable.
The coming weeks will be crucial in determining Salah's future at Liverpool. His immediate task is to fight for his place under Slot, as he prepares to depart for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on December 15. However, the current situation has opened a complex conversation, intertwining on-form decline, a tactical shake-up, and strong interest from Saudi Arabia.
