Return dates for Prem stars revealed after AFCON quarter-finals – with Salah confirmed to miss key Liverpool match
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The article reports on the expected return dates of Premier League players involved in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) following the completion of the quarter-finals, with particular focus on Mohamed Salah and other key top-flight stars.
With AFCON running deep into January, players’ availability now largely depends on how far their countries have progressed. Those whose nations were knocked out in the quarter-finals are due back earliest, as they are no longer involved in the semi‑finals or final. These players should be able to rejoin club training shortly after their elimination and are expected to be in contention for selection around the next Premier League matchweek once they have recovered from travel and any fatigue.
However, for players whose nations have reached the semi‑finals and beyond, the tournament schedule means extended absences. Because AFCON includes a third‑place play‑off as well as the final, those still involved can be tied up right until the final weekend of the competition. This effectively rules them out of multiple league fixtures before they are free to return to domestic action, and even then, some clubs may opt to ease them back gradually depending on their minutes and condition.
The headline detail is that Salah is confirmed to miss a key Liverpool match. With Egypt still competing deep into the tournament, the timing of the semi‑finals and potential final appearance clashes with an important Liverpool fixture, leaving Jürgen Klopp’s side without their main attacking talisman. The article highlights how this absence could significantly impact Liverpool’s title push or top‑four ambitions, given Salah’s goals, creativity and influence.
Overall, the piece underlines how AFCON’s knockout phase has created a mixed picture for Premier League clubs: some will gain important players back after quarter‑final exits, while others, like Liverpool with Salah, face crucial games without their African stars at a pivotal stage of the season.