Liverpool boss Arne Slot insists Mohamed Salah is still part of his plans amid Saudi interest | OneFootball

Liverpool boss Arne Slot has moved to calm speculation over Mohamed Salah’s (33) future, insisting the forward “is still very much in my plans” despite reports of renewed interest from Saudi Arabia, as reported by Sky Sports.

Salah has not started Liverpool’s last two matches, missing the win at West Ham before coming off the bench in the draw with Sunderland. His reduced role has prompted fresh scrutiny, with reports on Friday suggesting Saudi Pro League clubs are ready to fund a significant move should the 33-year-old signal any desire to leave Anfield in January.

Slot, however, was firm in his response ahead of Saturday’s game against Leeds, making clear that Salah’s recent omission should not be interpreted as a shift in Liverpool’s long-term thinking.

“Every player is in my mind to start because we have so many good players,” Slot said. “Mo has been exceptional for us. He is always in my thoughts to start or to come in.”

Slot added that debate around Salah was inevitable given his influence since joining Liverpool in 2017, but stressed that rotation is part of managing a competitive squad.

“He’s been so influential for this club for six or seven years,” Slot said. “It’s normal people talk when he doesn’t play. But he remains an important player for us.”

GFN | Finn Entwistle