Liverpool star Mohamed Salah has been left out of the club’s Champions League squad for the crucial clash against Inter Milan, following a tense weekend that saw the forward publicly criticise head coach Arne Slot.
The decision comes after Salah’s post-match interview following the 1–1 draw with Leeds United, where he claimed he had been “thrown under the bus” and suggested his relationship with Slot had deteriorated.
Liverpool Opt for Cooling-Off Period
According to BBC Sport, Liverpool reached the decision with Slot’s full approval, believing a short break from selection is the best move given the timing and tone of Salah’s remarks.
Despite the controversy, Salah trained with the squad on Monday morning, indicating that a return to the team remains possible. The club has chosen not to take disciplinary action, and the forward has not been fined.
Salah Set to Join Egypt for AFCON
Salah is expected to join the Egypt national team for the Africa Cup of Nations next Monday, meaning he will likely miss Liverpool’s upcoming Premier League match against Brighton.
A 19-man Liverpool squad travelled to Milan on Monday afternoon. Slot will address the media later in the day alongside goalkeeper Alisson Becker.
Omission Highlights Slot’s Authority
Salah’s exclusion demonstrates Slot’s willingness to assert control but stops short of harsher measures, especially given Salah’s earlier frustrations after the Leeds match.
This season, Salah has scored five goals in 18 Premier League and Champions League appearances. Across his Liverpool career, he has netted 250 goals in 420 games, remaining one of the club’s most influential players.
His 29 goals last season were vital in Liverpool lifting the Premier League title during Arne Slot’s debut campaign.
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