Salah says he has been ‘thrown under the bus’ by Liverpool

Mohamed Salah expressed that he feels as if he has been «thrown under the bus» by Liverpool, indicating that his connection with head coach Arne Slot has deteriorated.

Salah did not take the field as a substitute in Saturday’s 3-3 match against Leeds United – marking the third consecutive game he has been left on the bench.

Following the match, the player, who has netted 250 goals in 420 appearances for Liverpool, stated in a striking interview with reporters: «It’s apparent that someone wants me to shoulder all the blame.

«I’ve mentioned before that I had a solid relationship with the manager, yet suddenly, it feels like there’s no relationship at all. I’m unclear about the reasons.

«It appears that the club is casting me aside – that’s my impression.

«This club has my unwavering support. My children will always support it. I hold a deep affection for this club and that won’t change.

«The current situation is unacceptable to me; honestly, I don’t understand it. It’s as if I’m being pushed further aside. I don’t see myself as the issue. I have contributed immensely to this club. I shouldn’t have to prove my worth daily; I have earned my place.»

Salah, at 33, found the net 29 times in the 2024-25 Premier League, helping the Reds clinch the title during Slot’s inaugural season as head coach.

Nonetheless, he has faced challenges with his form since then, as Liverpool has struggled to replicate last season’s success.

Salah, who was signed by Jurgen Klopp from Roma in 2017, has scored only four goals in 13 Premier League matches this season.

According to sources, the Saudi Pro League remains keen on Salah, who updated his Liverpool contract for two years back in April. Al-Hilal, managed by Simone Inzaghi, is reportedly among the clubs interested in him.

After the match against Leeds, in which Liverpool initially led 2-0 and then 3-2 before conceding a last-minute equalizer, Liverpool’s head coach Arne Slot explained to Sky Sports the reasons for not bringing on Salah at Elland Road.

«At 3-2, it was more about managing the game, and we didn’t need another goal,» Slot mentioned. «Typically, I would have brought Mo on when a goal is necessary, as I did last week against Sunderland.»

At his pre-match press briefing on Friday, Slot acknowledged the discussions surrounding Salah’s omission from the starting lineup.

«The conversation is warranted, he has been a key player for me and for six or seven years. It’s entirely understandable for people to talk when he’s not on the pitch,» Slot added.

Salah, currently third in Liverpool’s all-time scoring chart behind Ian Rush (346) and Roger Hunt (285), last started in the 4-1 Champions League defeat at home to PSV Eindhoven on 26 November.