Liverpool have received a crucial update on the return date of star forward Mohamed Salah from the Africa Cup of Nations, following Egypt's dramatic progression to the tournament's semi-finals.
Egypt's Path to the Semi-Finals
The Pharaohs secured their place in the final four with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Ivory Coast on Saturday evening. Salah was instrumental in the win, providing an assist and scoring a vital goal. Manchester City's Omar Marmoush opened the scoring, with Rami Rabia doubling the lead from a Salah assist. After an Ivorian reply, Salah struck in the 52nd minute to restore Egypt's two-goal cushion, a goal that proved decisive despite a late consolation for the hosts.
Salah's Definitive Liverpool Absence
Egypt's success means Salah is now guaranteed to miss Liverpool's upcoming Premier League fixture against Burnley next weekend. His focus remains on the AFCON semi-final, where he will face former teammate Sadio Mane's Senegal on Wednesday afternoon (5pm UK time).
The tournament's schedule now dictates his return to Merseyside. If Egypt loses to Senegal, they will contest a third-place play-off on Saturday, January 17. Victory would see them advance to the final on Sunday, January 18.
Champions League Return on the Horizon
Regardless of Egypt's result in the semi-final, Salah is expected to be available for selection for Liverpool's next Champions League group stage match. Arne Slot's side travel to face Marseille on Wednesday, January 21, which is the first competitive fixture after the AFCON concludes.
However, should Egypt win the tournament, potential celebrations could delay his return, making the Premier League trip to Bournemouth on Saturday, January 24 a more likely comeback date.
Liverpool will be eager for their talisman's return after a recent dip in form. The Reds have drawn their last three matches in all competitions, including stalemates against Leeds, Fulham, and Arsenal. Manager Arne Slot acknowledged his team's recent struggles in attack, stating, "We are struggling to create a lot of chances... We have to find answers to that. We haven't found enough yet, but we are working on that every single day to improve."
The return of Salah, the club's chief creator and goalscorer, is seen as pivotal to reigniting Liverpool's season as they compete on multiple fronts.
