Arne Slot appears to avoid Mohamed Salah question from reporter ahead of Liverpool vs Burnley
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Arne Slot Appears to Avoid Mohamed Salah Question from Reporter Ahead of Liverpool vs Burnley
In a tense pre-match press conference ahead of Liverpool's clash with Burnley on January 16, 2026, manager Arne Slot notably sidestepped a direct question about star forward Mohamed Salah, fueling speculation about ongoing tensions between the pair.
The incident occurred when a reporter probed Slot on Salah's recent form and contract situation amid rumors of Saudi interest. Slot, maintaining his composed demeanor, shifted focus immediately to the upcoming fixture, stating, "Let's talk about Burnley. They're a tough opponent with a strong defense, and we're preparing accordingly." He avoided any mention of Salah by name, prompting observers to note the evasion as a sign of unresolved issues.[1][3]
Background tensions stem from Salah's bombshell interview last month, where he claimed his relationship with Slot had "broken down" and hinted at feeling "thrown under the bus." Slot responded then by expressing surprise but affirming Salah's importance, saying he had "no reasons" for the forward to leave in January. Salah was benched for three games, including a Champions League tie against Inter Milan, with Slot citing tactical adjustments against opponents' game plans.[1][3][5]
Recent developments show tentative reconciliation. Post-Brighton win, Slot praised Salah's substitute performance and kept private talks confidential. He hinted at closure, calling Salah "so important," amid Salah's AFCON duties where Egypt reached the semi-finals.[2][4][7]
Slot emphasized his authority in squad selection, consulting sporting director Richard Hughes but making final calls. "The focus is on the team," he reiterated, underscoring Liverpool's attacking struggles and reliance on key players like Salah.[1][6]
Fans and pundits interpret Slot's dodge as caution ahead of a critical Premier League run. With Liverpool aiming for top-four, Salah's future remains pivotal—will he start against Burnley, or signal deeper rift?
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