Mohamed Salah Returns to Liverpool Squad Ahead of Brighton Clash

Liverpool fans received some relief on Friday, December 12, 2025, as star forward Mohamed Salah was named in the squad for the Premier League match against Brighton. 

This comes after days of uncertainty surrounding his relationship with head coach Arne Slot.

Salah, 33, had been left out of Liverpool’s travelling squad for their Champions League trip to Inter Milan, following comments that suggested a breakdown in his relationship with Slot. 

The Egyptian forward had expressed frustration, claiming he had been “thrown under the bus” during the team’s recent matches.

However, after positive discussions with Slot on Friday, Salah was cleared to play, although some issues are expected to continue being addressed by Salah and his agent, Ramy Abbas, during his participation in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Liverpool manager Arne Slot emphasized that the club values Salah and wants him to remain an important part of the squad. 

“There are no reasons not to want Mohamed Salah to stay,” Slot said at a pre-match press conference. He added that the outcome of further conversations with the player will determine the future course of action.

Salah’s inclusion comes at a critical time for Liverpool, with several players sidelined due to injury. Slot’s decision aims to strengthen the team ahead of a challenging match at Anfield against Brighton on Saturday at 15:00 GMT.

The forward has scored an impressive 250 goals in 420 appearances for Liverpool, underlining his importance to the team. 

However, he has been an unused substitute in two of Liverpool’s past three Premier League games. His last start was on November 26, 2025, in the Champions League defeat to PSV Eindhoven, while he appeared as a substitute in the 1-1 draw against Sunderland on December 3, 2025.

Salah’s recent comments, made after Liverpool’s 3-3 draw with Leeds at Elland Road, caused concern among fans. 

In the interview, he mentioned that the upcoming match would be an opportunity to say goodbye to Anfield and revealed that he had invited his mother to witness the game.

Despite the tensions, Slot has expressed optimism. He confirmed that ongoing discussions between Salah, the club, and his representatives aim to resolve outstanding issues while ensuring the forward remains focused on his performances for Liverpool.

Salah is scheduled to depart for the Africa Cup of Nations on Monday. Depending on Egypt’s progress in the tournament, he could miss up to eight Liverpool games if the team reaches the final in Morocco on January 18, 2026.

This season, Salah has scored five goals across the Premier League and Champions League, demonstrating his continued contribution to Liverpool’s attacking strength. 

Fans will be eager to see him return to action and help the team improve its recent run of results, following two consecutive league draws.

The inclusion of Salah in the squad against Brighton not only strengthens Liverpool’s lineup but also sends a signal that the club is committed to maintaining a strong relationship with its star player. 

Both Slot and the club’s management are keen to navigate this period carefully to ensure Salah remains focused and motivated.

Post a Comment

0 Comments