Liverpool manager Arne Slot has publicly stated his strong desire to keep star forward Mohamed Salah. This comes amidst swirling speculation about the Egyptian’s future. Reports also suggest rising tensions behind the scenes.

Salah, 33, was recently excluded from the squad for Liverpool’s Champions League trip to Inter Milan. This decision fueled further questions about his position under the new manager. Previously, the Egyptian had asserted to reporters that he had “earned his place” in the team. His relationship with the club’s hierarchy has since become a major talking point.

Slot Confirms Desire to Retain Salah

Addressing the situation directly, Slot moved to calm concerns. When asked if he wanted Salah to stay, he responded, “I have no reason not to want him to stay.”

The Dutch manager also confirmed an upcoming face-to-face meeting with Salah. “I will have a conversation with Mo,” Slot stated. “The outcome of that conversation determines how things will look on Saturday.” Liverpool is set to host Brighton this weekend at Anfield in a 15:00 GMT kick-off. They aim to bounce back from consecutive league draws.

Salah’s Recent Playing Time and Goals

Salah boasts an impressive record of 250 goals in 420 appearances for the Reds. However, he has found himself on the fringes of the starting line-up in recent weeks. He has been an unused substitute in two of Liverpool’s last three league matches. His most recent appearance was in the 1-1 draw against Sunderland on December 3. His last start came during the Champions League loss to PSV Eindhoven on November 26.

Slot revealed that discussions surrounding Salah’s role have been ongoing. He explained, “After the Sunderland game there were a lot of conversations between his representatives and ours, between him and me.”

Upcoming AFCON and Saudi Interest

The forward is scheduled to depart for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Monday. He could be absent until after the final on January 18. This depends on Egypt’s performance in the tournament. This season, Salah has registered five goals across Premier League and Champions League fixtures.

Earlier in the week, Slot admitted he had “no clue” if Salah had played his final game for Liverpool. Despite this, he stressed a firm belief. Players can successfully reintegrate, even after challenging periods, he noted.

The Saudi Pro League, which vigorously pursued Salah last summer, still views him as a marquee target. Its chief executive, Omar Mugharbel, publicly confirmed that interest in the Liverpool star remains strong.

Slot’s Authority and Club Decisions

Slot dedicated a significant portion of Friday’s news conference to addressing queries. Questions focused on his relationship with Salah. They also addressed the extent of his authority over team matters.

“We decided as a club, and I was part of that decision, not to take him to Milan,” Slot explained. He further clarified his role. While he regularly communicates with sporting director Richard Hughes and chief executive Michael Edwards, he stated, “when it comes to the decision-making of the line-up or the squad, they leave that open to me.”