Mohamed Salah's Liverpool Return Date After AFCON Semi-Final Loss

January 15, 2026 | By Joanna Durkan

Mohamed Salah's quest for a first Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title ended in heartbreak as Egypt suffered a 1-0 defeat to Senegal in the semi-finals in Morocco. The decisive moment came late in the match when Salah's former Liverpool teammate, Sadio Mané, scored a low shot from the edge of the area with 12 minutes remaining, securing Senegal's place in the final against hosts Morocco in Rabat on Sunday.[1][2][3]

Despite netting four goals en route to the semis, Salah was effectively neutralized by Senegal's defense in a cautious, low-scoring affair. Egypt now faces Nigeria in the third-place playoff on Saturday afternoon—a match often lacking motivation for players. While there's a slim chance Salah could be released early from national duty, it's unlikely, meaning Liverpool must wait longer for their star winger's return.[1]

Salah will miss Liverpool's Premier League clash against Burnley this Saturday. The subsequent Champions League fixture midweek may also prove too soon, factoring in travel and recovery time. His most probable comeback is for the late kick-off away at Bournemouth on Saturday, January 24.[1]

Liverpool respects Salah's international commitments and won't rush him back. The 33-year-old's future at Anfield remains a talking point. Before departing for AFCON in December, he publicly criticized manager Arne Slot for feeling "thrown under the bus" after being benched amid team struggles. Salah was then omitted from the Champions League squad for Inter Milan but featured briefly against Brighton prior to leaving.[1]

With Liverpool navigating a busy schedule, fans eagerly await Salah's reintegration, hoping his international exploits sharpen his form for the Premier League title push.

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