Liverpool manager Arne Slot has opened up about Mohamed Salah's reaction to being left out of the starting lineup for Sunday's Premier League clash with West Ham United.
Salah's Bench Role Sparks Reaction
The Reds secured a comfortable 2-0 victory at Anfield, but the pre-match team news caused a stir when star forward Mohamed Salah was named among the substitutes. Following the match, Slot confirmed the Egyptian international was far from pleased with the decision.
"He wasn't happy he wasn't starting, but he wasn't the only one," Slot stated, acknowledging the competitive nature of his squad. The Dutch coach described the 31-year-old's frustration as a "normal reaction for a player who is good enough to play for us."
Praise for a 'Top Professional'
Despite his initial disappointment, Slot was effusive in his praise for how Salah handled the situation. He emphasised that the player's conduct on the day was exactly what you would expect from a senior figure with his track record.
"The way he behaved was as you'd expect from such a professional," Slot explained. "He supported his teammates and handled himself really well." The manager highlighted Salah's incredible discipline and understanding of his own body, crucial for maintaining performance levels in a packed fixture schedule.
Slot added a significant endorsement of the forward's enduring value and mentality, regardless of selection or form. "Whether he plays well, doesn't play well, plays or doesn't play, he'll always be that top professional," he affirmed.
Looking to the Future at Anfield
In his comments, Slot made a point of underlining Salah's past and future importance to Liverpool. "I say that mildly as he's been so outstanding for this club and will be in the future," he noted, signalling that the player remains a central part of his plans moving forward.
The incident offers an early glimpse into Slot's man-management style as he navigates his first season in charge at Anfield. Balancing the expectations of world-class talents while maintaining squad harmony will be a key challenge, and Salah's professional response provides a positive example for the entire group.
