Liverpool: Arne Slot defends Mohamed Salah decision in Leeds draw as star's future in doubt | OneFootball

Forward gave damning interview after being unused substitute at Elland Road

Arne Slot would not be drawn into a discussion about Mohamed Salah’s future after Liverpool were held to a frustrating 3-3 draw by Leeds, insisting that his decision not to use the player was tactical.

Starting forwards Hugo Ekitike and Cody Gakpo were both withdrawn in the second half, but were replaced by striker Alexander Isak and defensive midfielder Wataru Endo.

Salah made his frustration known at full-time, giving a bombshell interview in which he accused the club of throwing him under the bus as a scapegoat for poor results. He added that he no longer has a relationship with Slot.

The Dutchman has faced plenty of questions about Salah since he fell out of favour. Asked for a fresh update on his situation after the draw to Leeds, he said: “Like I said before the game, we have to accept the situation we are in. I make my choices based on that.

“The short-term future of Mo is that in a week’s time he is going to the African Cup of Nations, but before that we play Inter and Brighton.”

Pressed as to why Salah was not among the forwards to come off the bench, Slot added: "It was more about controlling the game [at 3-2] and we didn't need a goal.

“Normally when you need a goal, like last week against Sunderland, I brought Mo (Salah) on."

Liverpool travel to face Inter Milan in the Champions League this week before hosting Brighton in the Premier League on Saturday.

The meeting with Brighton will be Salah’s last Liverpool match before he joins up with Egypt’s AFCON camp, where he could remain as late as January 18, 2026. Salah has suggested he might not return to Anfield.

After outlining his discontent with his lack of playing time, Salah added: “(When we face Brighton) at Anfield I will say ‘goodbye’ to the supporters, because I am going to [AFCON]. I don't know what will happen when I am there.

“In football, you never know. I don't accept the situation and I have done so much for this club.”