Arne Slot Finally Responds to Mohamed Salah's Explosive Outburst: 'My Reaction Is Clear'
Following Mohamed Salah's harsh criticism of Liverpool and Arne Slot, the Dutch manager has emphasized to his star forward that being a "courteous" coach doesn't make him "vulnerable."
Salah made headlines on Saturday night when he expressed his displeasure to journalists regarding Slot, who had dropped the Egyptian player for the third straight game during the Reds' 3–3 tie with Leeds United at Elland Road.
The 33-year-old forward alleged he was being made a "scapegoat" for Liverpool's disappointing streak and stated he maintains "zero connection" with Slot. Within 48 hours, Salah found himself excluded from Liverpool's roster for their Champions League clash against Inter on Tuesday night.
Slot addressed inquiries about Salah for more than 10 minutes during his pre-match press briefing on Monday, disclosing the nature of his dialogue with the current Premier League Player of the Season after his public statements.
"We're aware he won't be traveling with the team, and that was our only message to him. Prior to Saturday, we've had numerous conversations, some lengthy and others brief," the 47-year-old explained, contradicting Salah's assertion about their lack of rapport.
"That's not my perception, though he's entitled to his feelings. I certainly didn't sense that until Saturday night.
"Typically I remain composed and courteous, but that doesn't indicate weakness. When a player makes such statements, we must respond as an organization. His absence speaks for itself."
Slot: There Is 'Always a Return' for Salah, Liverpool
Despite Liverpool's difficulties, where the reigning English champions have secured only two victories in their previous 10 Premier League matches, Slot didn't anticipate such a response from Salah.
"When I stopped selecting him, players typically become less fond of their manager, but he remained courteous toward staff and teammates while training with dedication, so his public remarks came as quite a shock," the Dutch coach revealed.
"However, this isn't the first instance of a player being benched. My response to such situations is evident, which explains his absence today."
Nevertheless, Slot believes reconciliation remains possible for Salah, even as the striker suggests a potential January departure. "I strongly believe there's always an opportunity for redemption," he declared.
The former Feyenoord boss declined to discuss whether Salah would return to the squad when the Reds face Brighton & Hove Albion at Anfield on Saturday—potentially his final opportunity to feature before joining Egypt for the Africa Cup of Nations.