Liverpool Set for Immediate Mohamed Salah Dilemma from AFCON Return After Latest Arne Slot Blow

Mohamed Salah's return to Liverpool following Egypt's Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign presents manager Arne Slot with an immediate tactical and selection dilemma, as the Egyptian star is unlikely to be available for upcoming crucial matches despite his imminent arrival back in Merseyside.^[1][2][3][4]

Egypt suffered a heartbreaking semi-final exit to Senegal, led by Sadio Mané, denying Salah his elusive continental title despite his four goals in the tournament.^[2][3] The Pharaohs must still contest the third-place playoff against Nigeria on Saturday in Morocco, meaning Salah will not return immediately to Liverpool.^[1][2][3][4] This fixture, scheduled just an hour after Liverpool's Premier League clash with Burnley, rules him out of that game entirely.^[3]

Arne Slot confirmed in his pre-Burnley press conference that Salah is expected back next week after fulfilling his international commitment.^[4] "We are in talks with him... first of all he needs to have a game on Saturday and next week he will be back with us," Slot stated, emphasizing Salah's importance: "Mo has been so important for this club, for me... Even if I had 15 attackers, I would still be happy that he comes back."^[1][4] Discussions are ongoing about his potential involvement in the Champions League match against Marseille on January 21, though travel and recovery demands make it doubtful.^[2][3][4]

Salah has not started for Liverpool since a 4-1 Champions League loss to PSV on November 26, amid reports of strained relations with Slot and speculation over his future, fueled by Saudi Arabian interest during the open transfer window.^[1][2] His return could signal a contract extension milestone toward a decade at Anfield or intensify exit talks, complicating Liverpool's plans as Premier League champions.^[1] Availability for the Bournemouth league game on January 24 appears more certain, allowing time for reintegration.^[2][3]

Liverpool officials are managing expectations carefully, aware of Salah's physical peak condition but prioritizing recovery after his intense AFCON schedule.^[1] This "blow" forces Slot to navigate without his key attacker short-term, heightening the urgency to resolve the Salah dilemma swiftly.^[1][4]

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