Salah Bids Temporary Farewell Amid Uncertainty

Salah Says “Goodbye”—But Only for Now?

As the final whistle blew on Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Brighton, Mohamed Salah stayed out on the Anfield pitch longer than anyone, applauding all four stands with a subtle wave to the Main Stand—where his family sat.

Was this a goodbye? Not quite. But it’s clear that Salah’s journey is entering a new chapter.

AFCON Calls, But Unresolved Issues Linger

Salah will join Egypt’s national team for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, potentially missing up to eight Liverpool matches if the Pharaohs reach the final in Morocco on 18 January.

Yet the bigger cloud hanging over Anfield is the lingering fallout from Salah’s outburst last week. After being benched and accusing the club of “throwing him under the bus,” the tension was obvious.

But manager Arne Slot made one thing clear post-match:

“There is no issue for me to resolve… For me, he is now the same as any other player,” Slot said.

He confirmed that talks between the two were “positive” and that Salah was his first substitution after Joe Gomez’s injury.

Assist King Returns – With Another Record

There is no issue to resolve – Slot on Salah’s return

Back in the spotlight, Salah provided the assist for Hugo Ekitike’s goal, reaching an incredible 277 Premier League goal involvements for Liverpool—more than any other player for a single club, overtaking Wayne Rooney (276 for Man Utd).

Though not on the scoresheet, Salah was instrumental, with pundits describing his display as “like the old Salah.”

“Salah has done extremely well,” said Stephen Warnock. “He just needs to rebuild his confidence after a tough week.”

Not Starting, Still Unbeaten

This was the fifth straight game Salah didn’t start, yet Liverpool remain unbeaten, a testament to Slot’s growing squad depth. That’s a silver lining for fans fearing a future without their Egyptian talisman.

But Salah’s impact remains undeniable. His presence alone lifted the team and the crowd, even amid speculation.

“You thought, ‘was that a wave or not?’ But it just looked like he was applauding the fans,” said Chris Sutton. “Still, everyone’s wondering—is he staying or going?”

What’s Next?

Salah heads to Cairo this week. Talks with Liverpool will continue during the AFCON window, but Slot hasn’t closed the door:

“I think actions speak louder than words,” Slot said. “He performed as every fan, including me, would like him to.”