Arne Slot Confirms Talks with Mohamed Salah as Liverpool Return Timeline Emerges

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has expressed delight at Mohamed Salah's imminent return from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025, emphasizing the star forward's vital role in the team. Salah's Egypt was knocked out by Senegal in the semifinals, but the 33-year-old will stay for the third-place playoff against Nigeria on Saturday before rejoining Liverpool next week[1][2].

Slot highlighted Salah's importance, stating, "Mo has been so important for this club and me, so I am happy he is back." He confirmed ongoing discussions about Salah's schedule, including availability for the UEFA Champions League clash with Marseille next Wednesday: "We are in talks with him and what is expected of him over there and over here."[1][2]

The comments follow a turbulent period. Last month, Salah sparked controversy with an interview claiming Liverpool had thrown him "under the bus" amid poor form and alleging a breakdown in his relationship with Slot. He was omitted from the Champions League game against Inter Milan but returned in the 2-0 win over Brighton before AFCON duty, with Slot declaring the issue resolved[1]. Recent press interactions saw Slot appear to sidestep a Salah question ahead of Saturday's Premier League hosting of Burnley, where Liverpool aim to extend their 11-game unbeaten run[1][4].

Despite strong results since a November defeat to PSV Eindhoven, Slot admitted performances must improve for sustained success[1]. Speculation persists about Salah's future, with Saudi Pro League interest and talk of potential 2026 exits alongside Virgil van Dijk to fund targets like Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz. Pundit Stan Collymore suggested Salah might not fit Slot's 2026-27 vision, though his 250 goals in 421 games cement his legacy[3]. Slot, however, focused on the present truce, hinting at closure[5].

Liverpool fans eagerly await Salah's return to bolster their title defense.

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