Slot is pleased to welcome Salah back to Liverpool following their AFCON match against Nigeria, despite the recent rift

Liverpool coach Arne Slot has said he is thrilled that Mohamed Salah will soon return from his Africa Cup of Nations duties, even if the two had a public argument only a few weeks ago.

After Liverpool’s 3–3 draw at Leeds United, the Egyptian forward said that his relationship with Slot had ended and accused the team of throwing him “under the bus.” This heated post-match interview was the catalyst for the conflict. The 33-year-old Salah hasn’t started for Liverpool since November and has been benched for three games.

“He has to play another big game for Egypt on Saturday,” Slot informed reporters prior to Liverpool’s match against Burnley at home. “His return makes me pleased. Having him back would still make me joyful even if I had fifteen assailants.

The team’s progress this season was emphasized by Slot, who pointed out that they had an 11-game winning streak in all competitions. However, five Premier League draws during that run have put the champions in fourth place, 14 points behind leaders Arsenal.

“Ideally, it would be 11 straight victories rather than 11 games without a loss. We strive to achieve that,” Slot stated. “We have come a long way since we gave up four goals against PSV Eindhoven, but we can still do better.”

In addition, the Dutch coach recognized the pressure Liverpool is under to qualify for the Champions League, taking into account the team’s impressive start to the season and the points they have lost recently.

Slot commended Andy Robertson’s professionalism despite his diminished importance in the team as Milos Kerkez has taken his starting position. Even though the 31-year-old Scotland international hasn’t committed to the team yet, Slot praised his maturity and dedication.

Andy’s remarks deserve a huge compliment from me. “It was quite mature,” Slot remarked. “But I’m really glad he also finds happiness in his role and realizes how crucial he has been and continues to be to this club over the years.”

When Salah returns on Saturday for Egypt’s encounter against Nigeria for third place, Liverpool will be hopeful that their lucky charm can help the squad get back on track and catch up to Arsenal in the Premier League standings.