The tension surrounding Mohamed Salah’s conflict with Liverpool loomed large as the team took on Inter Milan in the Champions League on Tuesday. Despite a narrow 1-0 victory, the Egyptian forward’s issues remain unresolved.
Dominik Szoboszlai secured the win with a penalty in the 88th minute, boosting Liverpool’s chances for a top-eight finish.
A potential draw was disrupted when Alessandro Bastoni pulled Florian Wirtz’s shirt, leading to a theatrical fall that caught the attention of VAR, prompting the referee to review the play.
Szoboszlai confidently scored past keeper Yann Sommer, elevating Liverpool to eighth place with 12 points after six of their eight group matches. Inter, also on 12 points but with a better goal difference, sit in fifth.
Coach Arne Slot excluded Salah from Tuesday’s lineup following the player’s critical remarks on Saturday, accusing the club of undermining him after being benched in a 3-3 draw with Leeds United.
When questioned about Salah’s future at the club, Slot expressed uncertainty.
After the game, with fans chanting his name, Slot was more conciliatory, suggesting Salah might have spoken out of frustration after the Leeds draw.
He hinted that Salah might need to take steps to mend the situation.
“Mistakes happen, but does the player recognize his error? Should the initiative to reconcile come from him or me?” Slot pondered.
Liverpool faces Brighton Hove Albion in the Premier League before Salah joins Egypt for the African Cup of Nations on Dec. 15.
Salah, Liverpool’s third-highest scorer with 250 goals, may still have a future at the club, according to defender Andy Robertson.
“Others will decide, not me, but I enjoy playing with Mo Salah and hope to continue,” Robertson stated.
After winning the Premier League under Slot last season, with Salah netting 34 goals and 18 assists in 52 matches, Liverpool has struggled this season, although Tuesday’s win might offer some respite.
“We aren’t in our best form, and results haven’t met expectations. It’s crucial for us to be in the Champions League and compete effectively,” Robertson commented.
“Supporters expect us to advance in the Champions League, so we must elevate our performances to progress and build momentum. This win was vital for us all.”
