Arne Slot provides latest on Mohamed Salah ahead of Brighton | OneFootball

Slot clarifies Salah stance ahead of Brighton encounter

Liverpool’s Premier League meeting with Brighton has become a focal point for reasons extending well beyond the tactical challenge posed by Fabian Hürzeler’s side. Attention has instead centred firmly on Mohamed Salah, whose recent omission and public comments have intensified scrutiny around both his immediate role and his longer-term future under Arne Slot.

With Brighton arriving at Anfield as one of the division’s most progressive and well-drilled outfits, the question of whether Salah will feature has dominated the build-up. Slot’s latest comments, delivered in his pre-match press conference, provide the clearest indication yet of how Liverpool intend to handle a situation that has escalated quickly over the past week.

Salah situation overshadows Brighton build-up

Salah’s absence from the Champions League squad that travelled to face Inter Milan was the moment the issue moved from background noise to headline news. That decision came just days after the Egyptian was again named on the bench in the Premier League, prompting a visibly emotional reaction following the dramatic 3-3 draw with Leeds United.

Complicating matters further is the timing of Egypt’s Africa Cup of Nations campaign. Salah is scheduled to leave Merseyside immediately after the Brighton fixture, meaning this weekend could represent his final appearance for Liverpool before the January transfer window opens. Reports suggesting the forward will attend Anfield regardless of selection, potentially to acknowledge supporters, have only heightened the sense of uncertainty.

External interest has also resurfaced. Senior figures within the Saudi Pro League have confirmed that Salah remains a priority target, with public comments from representatives linked to the Public Investment Fund indicating they are closely monitoring developments. While no formal offer has been confirmed, the narrative surrounding Salah has shifted from form and fitness to one of timing and control.

Slot focuses on dialogue rather than declarations

Slot has resisted the temptation to address the matter through public statements aimed at reassurance or discipline. Instead, his approach has been to stress the importance of direct communication, making clear that the decision on Salah’s involvement against Brighton hinges on a private conversation rather than media pressure.

“I will have a conversation with Mo this morning, the outcome of that conversation determines how it will look tomorrow,” Slot explained.

“What I need is a conversation with him and the next time I speak about Mo should be with him and not in here. There’s not much more I can say. I speak to him today and the outcome determines how things will look tomorrow.”

“You can try in multiple ways but I just said the next time I speak about him should be with him. I think there’s been a lot of conversations since the last week between his representatives and ours.”

The messaging was deliberate. Slot neither confirmed nor denied Salah’s inclusion, instead framing the situation as an evolving process rather than a fixed decision. It was also notable that Slot referenced discussions between representatives, suggesting the issue is being managed at multiple levels within the club.

Brighton fixture carries added significance

From a footballing perspective, the timing is awkward. Brighton’s aggressive pressing and fluid attacking structure demand experience and composure, qualities Salah has delivered consistently throughout his Liverpool career. Leaving him out would be a significant call, not just symbolically but tactically.

At the same time, Slot is balancing authority and harmony within a squad adapting to his methods. How he handles Salah in this moment will be viewed as an early indicator of his leadership style, particularly when dealing with elite players accustomed to central roles.

For Salah, the Brighton match represents more than just another league fixture. With AFCON looming and transfer speculation intensifying, his immediate future feels unusually undefined. Whether he starts, features from the bench or is left out entirely, the decision will be interpreted far beyond the final whistle.

What is clear is that Slot intends to keep the resolution internal for as long as possible. Brighton may provide answers on the pitch, but the conversation behind closed doors is what will ultimately shape Liverpool’s next steps.