Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah has been the subject of much debate again, after manager Arne Slot made the latest remarks surrounding the Egyptian star inclusion in the squad. Salah is yet to feature in the final two matches of Liverpool, unlike a typical player who has played almost every match of the season with the highest consistency in the history of the Premier League.
Slot reassured on Friday that Salah is very much within his tactical plans even though he has been benched in recent games. The Egyptian was not utilized in the 2-0 victory of Liverpool over West Ham United, before he made an appearance against Sunderland. His declining numbers have raised concerns on his shape and future, especially after registering four goals in 19 games this season.
Salah became the first player to lead the goals (29) and the assists (18) charts of a season in the English Premier League last season, achieving a record. The fact that his numbers have dropped significantly this term has created commotion among the supporters and even the pundits.
In the meantime, the Saudi Pro League keeps a close watch on the situation of Salah. A BBC story this week showed that Saudi clubs have renewed interest in the Egyptian given that he is considered an important marquee signing. Salah was strongly associated with Al-Ittihad last season and prior to renewing his deal with Liverpool, which was until 2027.
Slot is, nevertheless, cool concerning the speculation. He said: “Mo is a unique player, ever present to me, to play or to bring him on the bench. It is natural that the chatter should increase when one of his influence is not the starter.
Liverpool is ready to meet Leeds United on Saturday, and there is much concern whether Salah will be in the starting line. Having scored 250 goals in 420 matches since he joined the Reds in 2017, the forward becomes one of the greatest attackers in the history of the club.
What comes next after the resurgence or relocation will be his next move which will determine the season in Liverpool and the transfer world at large.