Mohamed Salah Returns to Liverpool Squad Before Marseille Trip but Reds Star Misses Training

Mohamed Salah has rejoined the Liverpool squad following his stint with Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), boosting the team's preparations for their crucial UEFA Champions League clash against Olympique Marseille on Wednesday. The 33-year-old forward returned to Merseyside after Egypt's third-place play-off defeat on Saturday, arriving amid ongoing speculation about his future at the club.[2][3][4]

Salah participated in a gentle workout session at Liverpool's training center on Tuesday, though reports indicate he missed full training ahead of the trip to France. Manager Arne Slot expressed happiness over Salah's return last week but remained non-committal on whether the star would feature, stating he was unsure pending assessment.[2][3] Liverpool, currently ninth in the Champions League league phase, need strong results to secure automatic qualification for the last 16 or avoid the play-off round.[2]

The Egyptian's comeback follows a turbulent period marked by a public dispute with Slot. After being dropped for three matches, Salah gave an explosive interview post a chaotic draw at Leeds, accusing the club of throwing him "under the bus" and questioning his relationship with the head coach. This led to his omission from the Inter Milan squad. He made a brief substitute appearance in a 2-0 Premier League win over Brighton on December 13, providing an assist, before departing for AFCON.[2][3]

Despite last season's Premier League Golden Boot with 29 goals and Liverpool's title triumph, Salah has struggled this campaign with just four goals. Teammate Dominik Szoboszlai, a close friend, maintained daily contact during Salah's absence but kept discussions private, deferring to the manager's decision on his involvement.[3] Slot has indicated the club has moved past the controversy, focusing on unity as Liverpool aim to reignite their season in Europe.[2]

With Ibrahima Konate absent from training, Salah's potential availability could be pivotal for the Reds' trip to Marseille.[4]