.jpeg)
The storm at Anfield has subsided—at least for now. After a week that saw Mohamed Salah sensationally omitted from Liverpool’s Champions League trip to Milan, manager Arne Slot has confirmed that the forward will be back in the matchday squad to face Brighton this Saturday.
The decision comes after "showdown" talks at the AXA Training Centre on Friday morning, where player and manager reportedly sought to move past the tension that followed Salah’s explosive post-match interview last weekend.
The "Exile" Ends: From Fallout to Frontline
The tension began following Liverpool's draw with Leeds, where Salah publicly claimed he had been "thrown under the bus" by the club and suggested his relationship with Arne Slot was "non-existent."
The Omission: In a display of authority, Slot and the Liverpool hierarchy left Salah out of the squad for Tuesday’s 1-0 win over Inter Milan.
The Resolution: During Friday’s press conference, Slot was measured. While he kept the specifics of their private chat under wraps, he confirmed the outcome: "I will have a conversation with Mo this morning... the outcome determines how it will look tomorrow." By Friday evening, widespread reports confirmed Salah had been included in the squad.
Slot’s Stance: "I have no reason for wanting him to leave," Slot added, emphasizing that the decision to bring him back was made in the "best interests of the team."
A Bittersweet Farewell?
Saturday’s match carries extra emotional weight. This is widely expected to be Salah’s final game for
Liverpool before he flies out on Monday to join the Egypt national team for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
In his incendiary Leeds interview, Salah himself noted that the Brighton game would be a chance to "say goodbye" to the Anfield faithful.Whether that goodbye is a temporary one for the tournament or a hint at a January transfer remains the subject of intense speculation, with Saudi Pro League interest looming large.
Crucial Team News for Slot
Salah’s return is a massive boost for a Liverpool side that is currently sitting an uncharacteristic 10th in the Premier League table and
facing a mounting injury list:
With Gakpo sidelined and Isak a major doubt, Salah’s reintegration isn't just a PR win—it's a tactical necessity. Liverpool have managed just two wins in their last ten league games, and they desperately need their talisman to provide the clinical edge that was missing during their recent domestic slump.
All eyes will be on the team sheet at 2:00 PM tomorrow. Will Salah start, or will he be used as a high-impact weapon from the bench for one final Anfield appearance?
Do you think starting Mohamed Salah is the right move for team harmony, or should Arne Slot have kept him out longer?