Fabrizio Romano has shared what he has been told by “sources close to Liverpool” regarding a “positive” meeting between Mohamed Salah and Arne Slot on Friday.
Salah was left out of Liverpool’s squad for the midweek Champions League victory over Inter Milan following his outspoken reaction last weekend. However, Slot revealed on Friday morning that he intended to hold talks with the winger, with the aim of bringing him back into contention for Sunday’s Premier League clash against Brighton.
True to his word, reports on Friday evening confirmed that Liverpool’s number 11 would return to the squad for the visit of the Seagulls.
Romano details ‘positive’ talks between Salah and Slot
Later on Friday night, Romano provided further insight via his YouTube channel, shedding light on the conversation between the player and the head coach.
He explained: “At around 6pm, we were informed about the outcome of the face-to-face meeting between Arne Slot and Mo Salah after training. Those close to the situation described it as a good and constructive meeting. It was positive in terms of the direct conversation they had.
“However, sources close to Liverpool also made it clear that there is still work to be done before everything can be considered fully resolved between Mo Salah, the coach, and the club as a whole.
“There are still issues to address, but the discussion was viewed positively. That is why Mo Salah has been included in Liverpool’s matchday squad to face Brighton at Anfield.”
Will Salah start against Brighton?
As James Pearce has pointed out, Salah’s return to the squad is a welcome boost for Liverpool, but it does not mean that questions surrounding his situation have been completely settled.
Even if he features against Brighton, it will only be confirmed 75 minutes before kick-off whether he returns straight to the starting XI or is named among the substitutes for a fourth consecutive Premier League match.
There is also uncertainty over whether Friday’s talks represent a short-term easing of tensions before the 33-year-old departs for the Africa Cup of Nations, or the beginning of a genuine reconciliation that could draw a line under the events of the past week.
What is clear is that, despite not reaching his usual elite standards this season, Liverpool would greatly benefit from having a player of Salah’s quality available for what promises to be a very demanding contest against Brighton.
He scored the decisive goal in this fixture last season as the Reds came from behind to secure a 2-1 victory. Repeating that performance today would be an ideal way to head off to AFCON — and a strong reminder that his Liverpool journey may be far from finished