Liverpool Consider Drafting Mo Salah Straight Back into Squad for Marseille Trip

Liverpool FC is weighing the possibility of reintegrating star forward Mohamed Salah directly into the squad for their upcoming UEFA Champions League match against Marseille next Wednesday, following Egypt's elimination from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).[2][4][5][6]

Manager Arne Slot confirmed in his pre-Burnley press conference that Salah is expected to return to the club next week after playing Egypt's third-place playoff against Nigeria on Saturday in Morocco. "First of all, he needs to play another big game for Egypt on Saturday and then he comes back to us," Slot stated, emphasizing Salah's importance: "Mo has been so important for this club, for me."[4][5][6]

Salah will miss Liverpool's Premier League clash with Burnley on Saturday due to international commitments but could be available for the Marseille trip. Slot revealed ongoing discussions: "We are talking together about [the Marseille game] now," highlighting careful management of timing amid a packed schedule including Champions League and domestic fixtures.[2][4][5][6]

The 33-year-old Egyptian's return comes after a turbulent period. Prior to AFCON, Salah publicly criticized Slot, claiming he felt "thrown under the bus" amid Liverpool's poor form, leading to his omission from the Champions League win over Inter Milan. He briefly featured as a substitute against Brighton before departing for Morocco. Slot insists relations are resolved, expressing delight at his star's imminent comeback despite having limited attacking options.[3][4][5]

Liverpool, on an 11-game unbeaten run across all competitions since a November defeat to PSV Eindhoven, view Salah's influence as pivotal for their European ambitions. His potential immediate drafting into the Marseille squad signals the club's intent to bolster their attack for this crucial phase, balancing recovery, travel, and national team obligations.[2][4][6]

(Word count: 298)