Arne Slot has admitted he does not know whether Mohamed Salah will play for Liverpool again, following the winger's explosive outburst that has cast doubt over his Anfield future. The Liverpool boss expressed his surprise at Salah's comments after the 3-3 draw with Leeds United, in which the Egyptian claimed their relationship had broken down completely.
Salah was left out of the squad for Tuesday's Champions League trip to Inter Milan, a decision made by the club with Slot's full support. The 32-year-old had been benched for a third time in a week, and his post-match remarks were interpreted as indirect criticism of the manager. Slot said he has not spoken to Salah about the meaning of his words, only informing him he would not travel to Milan.
When asked if Salah had played his last game for Liverpool, Slot replied: 'I have no clue. I cannot answer that question at this point in time.' He added that he believes there is always a possibility for a player to return, but stressed his immediate focus was on the Inter game. Liverpool have just one match before Salah links up with Egypt for the Africa Cup of Nations, and the January transfer window will open during his absence.
Slot insisted his authority has not been undermined, saying: 'It's not about me, it's about it being more difficult for the team and the club.' He acknowledged Salah's right to his feelings but questioned the decision to air them publicly. 'If he has the right to share it with the media then we have to react with it,' he added.
The manager explained that Salah's recent omissions were due to tactical struggles against opponents' game plans, and noted that the winger had been respectful in training despite not playing. 'It was a surprise to me when I heard the comments that he gave,' Slot said, but added that such reactions from unused players are not uncommon.
