Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah has been left out of the team’s travelling squad for their Champions League fixture against Inter Milan, following a tense fallout from his fiery post-match interview over the weekend. The club has chosen to give the Egyptian star a brief period away from selection after he publicly criticised the situation between himself and head coach Arne Slot.
Salah sparked controversy after Liverpool’s draw with Leeds United, stating that he had been “thrown under the bus” and that his relationship with Slot had deteriorated. According to BBC Sport, the club’s decision to omit him from the trip was made with Slot’s full backing, and is seen as the most appropriate response considering the sensitivity and timing of the remarks.
Despite the tensions, the 33-year-old took part in full training on Monday morning, signalling that a route back into the team remains open. Liverpool management has also chosen not to impose formal disciplinary action or fines, opting instead for a cooling-off period.
Salah’s exclusion comes at a particularly busy moment in the season. He is expected to join the Egypt national team next Monday for the Africa Cup of Nations, meaning he will also likely miss Liverpool’s weekend Premier League clash against Brighton.
Liverpool departed for Milan on Monday afternoon with a 19-man squad, while Slot and goalkeeper Alisson Becker are scheduled to address the press later in the day. The decision not only reinforces Slot’s leadership but also avoids escalating the situation, offering space for both parties to reset.
Salah remains one of Liverpool’s most important players, scoring five goals in 18 matches across the Premier League and Champions League this season. His extraordinary tally of 250 goals in 420 games places him among the club’s greatest ever forwards. His contribution last season was particularly decisive 29 Premier League goals that powered Liverpool to the EPL title in Slot’s debut season.
Liverpool now heads into their Champions League clash without their talisman, as the club attempts to steady the atmosphere and focus on continental competition amidst rising internal drama.
