How many matches could Mo Salah feature in between now and July following Egypt’s successful World Cup qualification?

To say the least, Mohamed Salah could be in for an incredibly hectic nine months.

The Liverpool talisman bagged a brace in Egypt’s 3-0 victory over Djibouti on Wednesday, sealing his nation’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup with a game to spare.

But that’s far from the only international duty awaiting the 33-year-old. He’s also expected to feature for Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) during the Christmas and New Year period—traditionally one of the busiest stretches of the English football season.

Between club and country commitments, the matches will come thick and fast for Salah in the months ahead. If he manages to stay injury-free (touch wood), the workload could be immense.

October–December

Liverpool currently have 14 confirmed fixtures before AFCON begins, with a potential 15th if they beat Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup fourth round.
Before joining up with Egypt in Morocco, Salah is also expected to play in two friendly matches as AFCON warm-ups.

Estimated games: 16 (14 for Liverpool, 2 for Egypt)

Africa Cup of Nations

Egypt’s AFCON campaign kicks off on 22 December against Zimbabwe. Should they reach the final on 18 January—or even the third-place play-off—they would play seven matches in total.

Estimated games: 7

January–May

This period depends on how far Egypt and Liverpool go in their respective competitions.
Assuming Egypt reach the AFCON final, Salah could return to Liverpool around 24 January, when the Reds face Bournemouth.

From there, Slot’s side would have 16 league fixtures left. If they progress to the finals of both domestic cups and the Champions League, that could add another 17 games.
Egypt are also expected to play two friendlies in March ahead of the World Cup.

Estimated games: 35 (33 for Liverpool, 2 for Egypt)

World Cup

The 2026 World Cup runs from 11 June to 19 July, with an expanded format allowing up to eight matches for nations that reach the semi-finals.
While Egypt may not be favourites to lift the trophy, reaching the round of 16 would still involve five matches.

Estimated games: 8

Final tally

Although it’s unrealistic to expect Salah to feature in every single fixture, his impressive fitness record and crucial role for both club and country suggest he’ll play most of them if he stays healthy.

In total, he could theoretically feature in up to 66 matches over the next nine months—having already played 13 since August.
That’s potentially 79 games in a year, a staggering schedule even for an athlete as durable and driven as Liverpool’s No.11.