Arne Slot Reveals Mohamed Salah Talks and Return Timeline After AFCON Heartbreak

Mohamed Salah's Egypt crashed out of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in heartbreaking fashion, losing 1-0 to Senegal in the semi-finals thanks to a late goal from former Liverpool teammate Sadio Mané. The 33-year-old winger, who scored four goals earlier in the tournament, was frustrated in a tense match in Morocco, completing zero dribbles and taking no shots in his 90 minutes.[1][2][4]

Despite the elimination, Salah won't return to Liverpool immediately. Egypt faces Nigeria in the third-place playoff on Saturday, January 17—coinciding with Liverpool's Premier League clash against Burnley, the final league game he'll miss.[1][2][3][4] Liverpool manager Arne Slot confirmed ongoing talks with Salah during his AFCON stint: "We are in talks with him over there, what is expected of him over here. He has an important game on Saturday, and next week he will be back."[3]

Salah's availability for Wednesday's Champions League match against Marseille remains doubtful due to travel and recovery needs, but he is expected to be fully fit for the Premier League game against Bournemouth on January 24.[1][2][4] Liverpool respects his national team commitments and won't rush him back.

His return reignites questions over his future amid the open January transfer window and interest from Saudi Arabia. Before departing for AFCON, Salah publicly criticized Slot for feeling "thrown under the bus" after being benched, leading to his omission from a Champions League squad. However, Slot insists the issue is resolved. Reports from The Athletic indicate Salah plans to stay until season's end, with fresh contract talks to follow.[1][4]

This AFCON exit denies Salah his elusive continental title, but his Liverpool comeback promises to boost the Reds' title charge.

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