It’s time for a shift in approach, it seems. While Arne Slot may present a calm demeanor, the Dutch manager asserts he possesses a strong inner resolve. His recent challenges as the Liverpool manager demonstrate that, despite his typically composed manner, he can make tough decisions.
“I usually remain calm and polite, which doesn’t equate to weakness. If a player expresses dissatisfaction publicly, it’s our responsibility as a club to respond,” he stated. “Our reaction is clear: he’s no longer here.”
That player, of course, is Mohamed Salah. A legend in Liverpool’s history, Salah was recently removed from the squad following his controversial interview, where he accused the club of betrayal. In response, Slot decided to leave him off the travel roster. Liverpool’s squad journeyed to Milan to face Inter without three wingers, as Federico Chiesa was ill and Cody Gakpo sustained an injury, raising the possibility of Salah’s reinstatement.
Slot maintains he doesn’t feel his authority is compromised (PA)
However, Slot chose not to include him. He noted that the discussion at training on Tuesday was brief. “We informed him that he wouldn’t be traveling with us. That was the extent of our communication,” he explained, adding that prior interactions had varied in length and depth. But after the breakdown in their relationship, short was sufficient.
Salah claimed there was no longer any rapport between him and Slot, though the manager saw the situation differently. “That’s not how I perceive it, but he has every right to his feelings,” he remarked. “I hadn’t sensed any issues until Saturday evening.”
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Slot explained that his decision concerning Salah stemmed from tactical considerations rather than personal grievances. The decision to bench Salah, who believed his past contributions warranted a spot in the lineup, was made to enhance team solidity. “We appeared vulnerable in recent matches against Nottingham Forest and PSV Eindhoven, so I opted for an additional midfielder,” he articulated. With the current shortage of wingers, this strategy might need to be adjusted further.
Slot’s short-term strategy, which he collaborated on with Liverpool’s management, involved excluding Salah not just for the Inter match, but likely for the Brighton game as well. Following that, the 33-year-old will participate in the Africa Cup of Nations.
There’s a chance that Salah’s recent brief appearance against Sunderland was his final one for the club. “I honestly can’t predict that right now,” Slot said, emphasizing that Salah’s contract renewal in April complicates matters regarding his future. “I firmly believe there’s always a chance for a player to return,” he added, though he made it clear that nothing is guaranteed.
Salah has been left out of Liverpool’s squad for the trip to Milan despite training on Monday (PA)
Given Slot’s backing from the club’s upper management and support from players like goalkeeper Alisson—who praised Slot’s knowledge and style—it might require Salah to acknowledge his missteps.
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Slot stressed that while he does not consider himself weak, he also does not sense any diminishment of his authority. “I don’t feel undermined. While Salah is entitled to his feelings, he has no right to voice them publicly,” he asserted.
The coach expressed confusion regarding Salah’s assertion that he was being managed by someone vastly different. “I wish I had clarity on what he means by that,” he said. “It makes it challenging for me to understand his comments and their intended target.”
Slot expressed uncertainty about Salah’s future with the club (Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Alisson, having established a strong bond with Salah during their time together at Roma and now at Liverpool, offered a unique perspective. “We enjoy a good friendship and have shared many happy moments, which strengthens our connection,” he acknowledged.
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Nonetheless, the Brazilian’s empathy seemed to fall short for Salah. “You can speak freely, but you must face the consequences,” he pointed out. “His absence is a direct result of his actions, and he is astute enough to understand that.”
Alisson went on to praise Salah, referring to him as “a great person, a fantastic character, and a club legend.” He concluded, “While the current situation isn’t pleasant, we were somewhat surprised by it. Ultimately, it’s a personal issue between him and the club.”
Alisson shared insights from the team’s perspective (Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
This situation, however personal, poses challenges for a team that has encountered a rough patch, winning just four out of their last fifteen games. The recent absence of key players places them as significant underdogs ahead of their clash with Inter. Liverpool has temporarily sidestepped the deeper issues by sidelining Salah, yet they have not issued formal discipline. Looking further ahead, even Salah’s close friends hold uncertain views regarding his future at the club.
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“I can’t predict anything, but I hope he can play for the club again,” Alisson said. “As his teammates and friends, we wish for the best outcome for him. However, as Liverpool players, we also seek what’s best for the club. We aim for a solution that benefits everyone.” Unfortunately, the current scenario feels like a lose-lose for both Salah and Slot. However, if the manager’s firmness ultimately strengthens his position, it may lead to a positive outcome for him.