Liverpool manager Arne Slot has addressed concerns about Mohamed Salah. He recently benched the star forward. Slot insists Salah remains vital to his plans. He dismissed speculation regarding the Egyptian’s future.

Salah, 33, has seen a slow start this Premier League season. He has scored only four goals so far. He played just 45 minutes in Liverpool’s last two games. This reduced playing time has sparked questions about his form. It also fueled fresh rumours about Saudi Arabian interest.

The Saudi Pro League continues to monitor Salah’s situation. Sources indicate a long-standing admiration for the Liverpool star. However, Salah signed a new two-year deal in April. This contract ties him to Anfield until 2027.

Slot Addresses Salah’s Situation

Speaking on Friday, Slot emphasized Salah’s undeniable quality. He stated it has not been overlooked. “Any player can start in my team,” Slot explained. “Mo is an exceptional player for us.”

He spoke before Liverpool’s Saturday match against Leeds United. “He is always in my mind,” Slot added. “Either to start or to come off the bench.”

Salah scored 29 goals last season. Liverpool won the league title in Slot’s debut year. Despite this, Salah was an unused substitute against West Ham last Sunday. He also started on the bench during Wednesday’s 1-1 draw with Sunderland at Anfield.

Slot acknowledged public discussion about Salah’s position. He understood the reasons for it. “The chatter is deserved,” Slot affirmed. “He has been so influential for six or seven years.” Slot noted that people often discuss players when they are not playing.

Since joining Liverpool in 2017, Salah has scored 250 goals. He achieved this in 420 appearances. This record firmly establishes him as a modern club legend.

Van Dijk Backs Team Policy

Captain Virgil van Dijk also commented on the situation. He stated that no player is guaranteed a starting spot. “He remains a fantastic player,” Van Dijk said after the Sunderland draw. “We must remember his immense success at the club.” “We have to respect that,” he added.

“I need him as one of our leaders,” Van Dijk continued. “I am not worried.” He acknowledged Salah’s disappointment. “That is completely normal,” Van Dijk explained. “If you are not disappointed after missing two games, then there is a problem.”

“No one is undroppable; that has always been true,” he stated. “Players do not have unlimited credit.” “Everyone must perform,” Van Dijk concluded.

Liverpool’s League Position

Liverpool sits ninth in the league this weekend. They are 11 points behind leaders Arsenal. The club has secured only two wins in their last nine league matches.