Mohamed Salah: Liverpool boss Arne Slot happy forward returning from Afcon

Mohamed Salah is set to come back to Liverpool next week, with manager Arne Slot expressing his happiness at having the striker return, even if it meant having «15 attackers».

Salah has spent the last month representing Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) but will return to Merseyside after Saturday’s third-place match against Nigeria.

Prior to his departure for Afcon, the 33-year-old gave a fiery interview alleging that «someone doesn’t want me in the club» and indicating a breakdown in his relationship with Slot.

He was then omitted from the Liverpool squad for their 1-0 victory over Inter Milan but came on as a substitute to provide an assist against Brighton four days later.

Before the Inter match, Slot mentioned he had «no idea» if Salah, who has scored 250 goals in 421 games for Liverpool, had played his final match for the club, but he is now ready to welcome him back.

«Firstly, he needs to participate in another crucial game for Egypt on Saturday, and then he joins us,» Slot commented.

«I’m glad that he is returning. Mo has been incredibly vital for this club and for me, so his return is great news.

«Even if I had 15 attackers, I would still be thrilled to see him back, but that’s not the current scenario.»

Liverpool has remained unbeaten in six matches since Salah left for Afcon, winning three, and will face Burnley at Anfield on Saturday (15:00 GMT).

However, with record signing Alexander Isak out for several months due to surgery on a left leg fracture, Slot will be pleased to enhance his attacking options.

The Reds are set to visit Marseille for a Champions League fixture on Wednesday, yet a decision regarding Salah’s availability for that match, or whether he will hold off until the away game against Bournemouth on January 24, has not yet been made.

«We are currently discussing [the Marseille game],» Slot noted.

«We’re in communication with him about what is anticipated from him there, and what is expected of him here. But his immediate focus is on an important game on Saturday, and he will be back with us next week.»

Regarding conversations he has had with Salah after their public fallout last month, the Dutch coach added: «Anything that transpires between Mo and myself, whether via phone or in person, remains private between us.

«And I believe it’s unnecessary for me to disclose all our private discussions.»

Slot also confirmed there are no new injury concerns for Liverpool aside from long-term absentees Isak, Conor Bradley, and Giovanni Leoni.

The main takeaway from Arne Slot’s press conference was his expressed ‘happiness’ at Salah’s anticipated return next week.

With injury concerns plaguing Liverpool, Salah’s comeback is increasingly vital. It remains uncertain whether he will need to adjust to a role as a non-regular starter, but it’s clear that a boundary has been established following last month’s dramatic interview.

Andy Robertson, who is getting accustomed to not starting regularly, passionately discussed his situation earlier this week, hinting that a decision about his future beyond this summer is still pending.

Slot heaped praise on Robertson, noting that «his words carry significant weight».

Ultimately, this is a narrative about two individuals who will be remembered in Liverpool for all the right reasons, showcasing how they have coped with their diminished roles on the team.