Mohamed Salah Back at Liverpool as Reds to Make Marseille Champions League Decision

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has confirmed Mohamed Salah's imminent return to the squad, boosting the team's prospects amid a packed schedule in the UEFA Champions League and Premier League[1][2]. Salah, Egypt's star forward, is set to rejoin Liverpool next week after participating in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where he will first play in the third-place play-off against Nigeria on Saturday in Morocco[2].

Slot provided the update during his pre-Burnley press conference, stating: “Next week [Salah will return]. 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.” He emphasized Salah's importance, adding, “Mo has been so important for this club, for me, so I am happy he is back,” even joking that he'd welcome him with 15 attackers[2]. Discussions are ongoing about Salah's potential involvement in Liverpool's crucial Champions League fixture against Marseille next Wednesday, with Slot noting, “That’s something we are talking about together now”[1][2][4].

The timing is critical as Liverpool navigates European and domestic pressures under Slot in his first season. Salah's return is expected to add “weight, structure, and a constant attacking threat,” especially with the demanding trip to Marseille on the horizon[1]. Reports hint that the Egyptian could feature in the Marseille squad, aligning with Liverpool's need for star power in Europe while maintaining league consistency[4].

Salah's comeback carries added weight ahead of the 2026 World Cup, as he aims to reclaim his starting spot amid past tensions with Slot and lead Liverpool back to the top of the Premier League[3]. His influence has historically defined eras at Anfield, and Slot is balancing reintegration to maximize impact across fronts[1]. With Marseille looming, Liverpool faces a familiar crossroads: European nights demand stars, while the league requires steadiness[1].

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