Mohamed Salah Benched for Liverpool vs. Brighton

By ESPN Staff • Published December 13, 2025

In a surprising team selection ahead of Liverpool's Premier League clash with Brighton & Hove Albion at Anfield, manager Arne Slot has opted to bench star forward Mohamed Salah. The Egyptian king, who has been in scintillating form this season with 15 goals and 12 assists in 18 appearances, starts on the sidelines as Liverpool aim to maintain their position at the top of the table.

Slot explained the decision post-lineup announcement, citing rotation needs amid a congested fixture list. "Mo has been phenomenal, but we've got Champions League midweek and FA Cup coming up. Fresh legs are key," the Dutch coach said. Liverpool sit five points clear of Arsenal after 16 games, but injuries to key defenders have stretched the squad thin.

Brighton's manager Fabian Hürzeler expressed delight at the news, calling it a "huge boost" for his ninth-placed Seagulls. "Salah is unplayable on his day, but their depth is scary. We've prepared for all scenarios," Hürzeler noted. The Seagulls have won three of their last five away games, scoring freely through João Pedro and Danny Welbeck.

Salah's benching recalls his 2022 omission by Jürgen Klopp against Manchester City, where he came on to score the winner. Fans on social media are split: some back Slot's bold call for squad management, others fear complacency against a tricky opponent. Liverpool's predicted XI features Diogo Jota up top, with Federico Chiesa and Cody Gakpo in support. Trent Alexander-Arnold returns at right-back after injury.

Kickoff is at 3 PM GMT. A win would extend Liverpool's unbeaten run to 12 league games. Brighton, buoyed by recent form, could exploit any rustiness. Expect Salah to enter around the hour mark if needed—his impact as a sub remains lethal.

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