Arne Slot Drops Bombshell Mohamed Salah Decision Ahead of Crucial Brighton Showdown

Mohamed Salah is set to be named in Liverpool's matchday squad for Saturday's encounter against Brighton & Hove Albion, according to several media outlets.

The Egyptian forward remained on Merseyside during Liverpool's midweek Champions League victory over Inter Milan, following his public criticism of the club where he claimed he had been "thrown under the bus" during the team's poor recent performances.

The winger, who many still consider among the world's elite players, also stated that his relationship with head coach Arne Slot had broken down—comments that have sparked intense speculation regarding his Anfield future.

During Friday's press briefing, Slot indicated he would have direct discussions with Salah to determine his availability for Brighton's visit, with both parties needing to resolve the situation.

According to The Athletic and several other sources, "constructive" discussions took place between the pair, resulting in the decision to reinstate Salah into Liverpool's squad.

Saturday's match against Brighton could mark Salah's final appearance in Liverpool colors for six weeks, as he prepares to represent Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations. The 33-year-old is scheduled to link up with his national team on Monday, December 15, potentially missing seven fixtures should Egypt reach the AFCON final.

Salah's Starting Position Uncertain for Saturday

While Salah may return to the matchday roster against Brighton, his inclusion in the starting lineup remains doubtful following Slot's recent tactical adjustments. The current PFA Player of the Year was omitted from matches against West Ham United, Sunderland and Leeds, which triggered his weekend outburst, and the Dutch manager chose not to deploy a conventional winger against Inter.

Slot instead tested alternative approaches aimed at ending Liverpool's recent struggles. The ex-Feyenoord manager paired Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitiké in attack for only the second occasion this campaign against Inter—a partnership that showed limited cohesion but ultimately contributed to a favorable outcome.

With Isak's recent struggles, Slot might bench the Swedish striker this weekend and deploy Ekitiké as the central striker, potentially creating space for Salah's return to the right flank.

However, rewarding the Liverpool icon with a starting role following his recent public comments may not align with Slot's preferences. The 47-year-old's team selection on Saturday will be closely scrutinized.