Egypt await final decision on Mohamed Salah availability ahead of Nigeria clash

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Egypt is currently awaiting a final decision regarding Mohamed Salah's availability for their upcoming pre-AFCON friendly against Nigeria. The match is set to be Egypt's last warm-up game before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, and the status of their star forward remains uncertain as key discussions continue between the Egyptian Football Association (EFA) and Liverpool.

Salah recently joined the national squad and featured in Egypt's 2-0 defeat to Uzbekistan. However, with Liverpool preparing for a crucial Premier League fixture against Nottingham Forest, there is growing speculation about whether Salah will be rested for the Nigeria clash. The EFA has indicated that the decision will be influenced by fitness considerations and the need to balance club and country commitments.

Reports suggest that Salah may be given time off to ensure he is in peak condition for Liverpool's busy schedule. This move would also provide a boost to the Premier League side, who are keen to manage Salah's workload ahead of a demanding period. Meanwhile, Egypt's coach Hossam Hassan will have to plan without certainty over Salah's participation, which could impact team selection and tactics for the Nigeria match.

Other players are also dealing with fitness issues. Winger Ahmed "Zizo" El-Sayed and midfielder Hamdy Fathy have been ruled out due to injuries sustained against Uzbekistan, while striker Salah Mohsen is yet to return to full training after picking up a knock in the same game. On a positive note, forward Omar Marmoush and winger Mahmoud Trezeguet are set to return to the squad, providing some depth for the upcoming fixtures.

The final decision on Salah's availability is expected soon, with both Egypt and Liverpool closely monitoring the situation as the Nigeria friendly approaches.