Mohamed Salah's Return to Liverpool After AFCON Heartache

Egypt's Mohamed Salah will return to Liverpool following a disappointing fourth-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, but his exact availability for upcoming matches remains uncertain amid ongoing club discussions.[1][2][3][4]

Heartbreaking AFCON Exit

Salah's Pharaohs suffered a semi-final defeat to Senegal, led by former Liverpool teammate Sadio Mané, denying Egypt a first-ever AFCON title for the star forward. Despite Salah's impressive four goals—joint-top with Morocco's Brahim Díaz and Nigeria's Victor Osimhen—he couldn't break through Senegal's defense in the tense loss.[1][2][3]

In the third-place playoff against Nigeria on Saturday in Casablanca, Egypt lost 4-2 on penalties after a goalless 90 minutes. Salah played the full match but saw his opening penalty saved, sealing fourth place.[4]

Liverpool's Waiting Game

Salah missed Liverpool's Premier League clash with Burnley due to the playoff timing, which overlapped with the Reds' kickoff.[2][3] Liverpool head coach Arne Slot confirmed talks with Salah and the Egyptian federation about his return, expressing delight: "Mo has been incredibly important... I am glad he is coming."[1][4]

Expectations point to Salah arriving back in Merseyside on Sunday or Monday post-playoff. His participation in Wednesday's Champions League away game against Marseille on January 21 is possible but doubtful due to travel and recovery. He's more likely to feature against Bournemouth on January 24, allowing a full week of preparation.[1][2][3]

Future at Anfield

Absent for Liverpool since a November Champions League loss to PSV, Salah returns in peak condition but faces questions over his role amid contract talks and Saudi interest. With the transfer window open, his comeback could define his next chapter at the club where he's nearing a decade of service.[1][3]

Liverpool, Premier League champions, prioritize a measured reintegration for their key attacker.[1]