Will Mohamed Salah be available to play for Liverpool vs Burnley after Africa Cup of Nations exit?
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Will Mohamed Salah Be Available to Play for Liverpool vs Burnley After Africa Cup of Nations Exit?
Following Egypt's semi-final exit from the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) against Senegal on Wednesday night in Morocco, Liverpool fans are eager for Mohamed Salah's return. Sadio Mané, Salah's former Liverpool teammate, scored a late decisive goal to eliminate the Pharaohs, ending Egypt's tournament run.
However, Salah's immediate availability for Liverpool's upcoming Premier League match against Burnley on Saturday is unlikely. Egypt must play a third-place playoff against Nigeria on Saturday afternoon, a fixture players often skip due to fatigue. While there's a slim chance Salah could be released early, reports indicate he will probably participate, delaying his club return amid travel and recovery needs.
This absence extends to Liverpool's Champions League clash with Marseille on Wednesday, January 21. The most probable comeback date is the late kick-off Premier League visit to Bournemouth on Saturday, January 24. Liverpool respects Salah's international commitments and won't rush him back, per liverpool.com insights.
Salah's AFCON departure was overshadowed by off-field tension. Before leaving in December, the 33-year-old publicly criticized head coach Arne Slot for "throwing him under the bus" after being benched during a tough team spell. He was dropped from the Champions League squad versus Inter Milan but featured briefly against Brighton prior to Morocco.
His future at Anfield remains a hot topic during the January transfer window. Despite a contract until June 2026 (with hopes to extend to 2027), Saudi Pro League clubs continue showing strong interest. Reliable sources confirm Salah is expected to stay through the season, though early parting talks could arise if issues persist.
Liverpool's squad planning reflects caution: replacement pursuits for Salah are paused amid other priorities like Ibrahima Konaté's uncertainty. Fans must wait patiently for their star winger's impact.
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