'We believe': David Ornstein details whether Salah could still leave Liverpool in January after AFCON return
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David Ornstein Details Whether Mohamed Salah Could Still Leave Liverpool in January After AFCON Return
Renowned journalist David Ornstein has provided clarity on speculation surrounding Mohamed Salah's future at Liverpool amid his return from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Despite ongoing rumors of a potential January exit, Ornstein states that Liverpool have no intention of allowing their star forward to depart during the current transfer window.[1][4]
Salah, whose contract runs until 2026 after signing a lucrative extension worth around £400,000 per week in summer 2024, has been absent representing Egypt at AFCON in Morocco. Egypt suffered a semi-final heartbreak, losing to Senegal via a late Sadio Mané goal—Salah's former Liverpool teammate. The Pharaohs now face Nigeria in the third-place playoff on Saturday, delaying Salah's immediate return to Anfield.[2][3]
Prior to AFCON, tensions arose when Salah publicly criticized manager Arne Slot, claiming he felt "thrown under the bus" amid Liverpool's early-season struggles. He was benched and omitted from a Champions League squad against Inter Milan but featured in a farewell win over Brighton before departing. Slot has since downplayed the rift, emphasizing Salah's importance: "Mo has been so important for this club and me."[2][3]
Ornstein echoes Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher's view that the club "cannot afford" to lose Salah in January, citing injuries like Alexander Isak's broken leg and the team's squad depth issues. Carragher predicts a potential summer exit, envisioning an emotional farewell in the final 2025-26 home game as the "perfect, choreographed send-off" for one of Anfield's all-time greats.[1]
Slot anticipates discussions with Salah post-playoff about availability for upcoming fixtures, including Champions League vs. Marseille on January 21 and Premier League vs. Bournemouth. Saudi Pro League interest persists, but Liverpool's focus remains on urgent priorities like Ibrahima Konaté's uncertainty, putting Salah replacement plans on hold.[2][3][5]
In summary, Ornstein confirms no January move is on the cards—"We believe" Salah stays put for now, allowing time to resolve dynamics and plan ahead.[1][4] (Word count: 298)