Mohamed Salah’s relationship with Liverpool manager Arne Slot continues to be tense, with the latest reports suggesting the situation has yet to be resolved.
Reds supporters bid farewell to the winger last Saturday as he departed for the Africa Cup of Nations, watching Liverpool secure a 2-0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League.
Salah’s participation in that fixture was seen by many as a potential step toward reconciliation with Slot, following the winger’s earlier public criticism of the coach.
The incident has fueled speculation that Salah could be on the move during the January transfer window, although many fans hope he will remain with the club for the rest of the season.
Journalist Lewis Steele reported in The Daily Mail that the dispute between Salah and Slot, as well as the wider club, is still ongoing.
He added that while no one at Liverpool wants to see the 33-year-old leave in January, a departure cannot be entirely ruled out.
Salah may miss up to seven matches due to AFCON, which concludes on January 17, leaving Liverpool to adapt without their star forward for a portion of the campaign.
Interest from Saudi Pro League clubs has been persistent, and with the high transfer fees these teams are willing to pay for Premier League talent, Salah could command a substantial sum.
Liverpool may be tempted to sell after spending around £450 million in the summer, yet keeping Salah could strengthen their bid for Champions League glory.
The team has already shown strong performances against sides like Real Madrid and Inter Milan, and Salah’s presence could be decisive in pursuing a seventh European title.
Slot has recently favored a two-striker setup with a diamond midfield behind the front pair to secure second balls more effectively.
Hugo Ekitike has impressed up front, but his partner Alexander Isak has struggled, though it is unlikely he will be sidelined given his £125 million transfer fee.
Full-backs Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong thrive when allowed to push forward, suggesting that moving away from a winger-based system might make tactical sense.
Salah has been Liverpool’s standout player since the 2017-18 season, and replacing his impact on the pitch will be challenging, even if Slot continues to evolve his formation.
