Alisson Breaks Silence on How Liverpool Stars Are Handling Salah-Slot Drama Behind Closed Doors
Liverpool's shot-stopper Alisson has acknowledged that the Reds' players find themselves in a challenging situation after Mohamed Salah's controversial statements about head coach Arne Slot, with the team wanting to back both parties.
Salah has been excluded from Liverpool's lineup for Tuesday's Champions League clash against Inter following his public expression of discontent after being benched for three straight matches, stating his connection with Slot is virtually non-existent and even suggesting that "someone" within the organization wants him gone.
Alisson joined Slot at his pre-match media briefing, where the Dutch manager emphatically reminded everyone that he is "not weak." As expected, the discussion quickly turned to the Salah situation.
"This isn't a simple situation, but as a team we handle it the best way we can," Alisson stated. "We maintain personal connections with him, I've been teammates with Mo since arriving in Europe, one season at Roma, eight at Liverpool.
"He's an exceptional person, wonderful character and a Liverpool icon. This situation doesn't bring me joy. However, in football we don't have much time to dwell on any circumstances.
"We face a major test [on Tuesday], a strong opponent to compete against. Inter has performed excellently this season, so my attention and the team's concentration is on the challenge ahead.
"[Salah] being unavailable is simply a result of his actions and he's intelligent enough to understand that. I haven't discussed this with Mo. We maintain a strong relationship. He's more than just a colleague, we spend considerable time together, rarely apart from the training facility. We're close friends. We share positive experiences, joyful moments that build connections. We'll talk but that remains private."
Alisson: Squad Remain Supportive of Slot
One of the most shocking assertions from Salah was his claim that his relationship with Slot has deteriorated completely—an allegation dismissed by the manager, who admitted that Saturday's explosive interview might have altered the dynamic.
When questioned about whether the remaining squad still supported Slot, Alisson confirmed that backing for the embattled manager remains complete.
"Absolutely [the squad supports Slot], yes," Alisson emphasized.
"I believe [securing] the Premier League title last season, before Arne's arrival everyone discussed the enormous task of replacing Jürgen Klopp.
"Now it seems everyone considers what we accomplished last season as routine. That shouldn't be viewed as ordinary. That should suffice, but we trust in his expertise. We have faith in his tactical approach and believe he can guide us through this difficult period. I think this extends beyond just us, but reflects the club's position as well."
'Hopefully Salah Has Not Played Final Liverpool Game'
With Salah excluded from Liverpool's squad against Inter, this weekend's fixture with Brighton & Hove Albion offers the Egyptian his last opportunity to wear the jersey before departing for the Africa Cup of Nations, which extends into the January transfer period.
Teams from Saudi Arabia and the United States are pursuing Salah's services and the experienced forward hasn't dismissed a January departure, making it conceivable that Salah has already made his final Liverpool appearance.
"I'm not speculating, but I wish he features again for the club," Alisson declared.
"That's a private matter between Mo and the organization. As his colleagues and friends, we desire the optimal outcome for him, but as Liverpool athletes we also want what's best for the club. We seek a beneficial resolution for all parties."