Mo Salah likely to stay at Liverpool, though early departure talks remain possible

 

Mo Salah is expected to stay at Liverpool at least until the end of this season, though there remains a “possibility” he could leave before his current contract expires. This update comes from the trusted David Ornstein, who shared insights on the Egyptian forward’s future as he continues his pursuit of an elusive Africa Cup of Nations title, with Egypt facing Senegal in Wednesday’s semi-final.

The 33-year-old has recently been in the spotlight following a fiery interview after Liverpool’s 3-3 draw at Leeds, where he claimed his relationship with Arne Slot had soured and accused someone at the club of trying to “throw him under the bus” (Sky Sports). After that explosive statement, there was speculation that Salah’s time at Anfield might be coming to an end. However, having featured in Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Brighton before heading to AFCON a month ago, it seems he still has several months left with the Reds.

In the latest Transfer DealSheet for The Athletic, Ornstein noted: “Despite recent uncertainty, the Egypt attacker is fully expected to finish the campaign at Anfield. It is hoped his situation will stabilize afterward, allowing him to see out the remainder of his contract, which runs until June 2027. However, if issues persist, discussions about an early departure could take place.”

Salah’s substitute appearance against Brighton hinted that he and Slot may have smoothed over their differences, though talks about his future are likely to resume once he returns from AFCON next week. Since the 4-1 loss to PSV Eindhoven in late November, he hasn’t started for Liverpool, and it remains unclear whether he will immediately rejoin the starting lineup, especially as the Reds have gone unbeaten in 11 games since that defeat.

With Alexander Isak sidelined until at least the end of February, Salah is unlikely to accept a bench role for the rest of the season. His strong AFCON showing—four goals and one assist—makes a compelling case for his return to Slot’s starting XI. The forward will need to sustain this form at Liverpool, where he has scored just five goals in 20 matches this season, and put the Elland Road controversy firmly behind him.

It would be a real shame for one of Liverpool’s greatest careers to end on a sour note. Ideally, any lingering tension will be resolved, allowing Salah the hero’s send-off he deserves, hopefully at the conclusion of his contract in June 2027.