Liverpool Star Exposes Salah's Behind-the-Scenes Apology and Locker Room Message
Liverpool's Curtis Jones has revealed that Mohamed Salah offered an apology to his squad members following his public criticism of both the football club and head coach Arne Slot.
Salah made unexpected comments to the media after remaining unused during Liverpool's 3–3 stalemate against Leeds United. He was then omitted from the traveling party for the Champions League fixture against Inter, though he did feature as a second-half substitute in the recent 2–0 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion.
The future of the Egyptian forward at Anfield beyond his current deal—which runs for another 18 months—is uncertain, especially as he has now departed for AFCON duties. However, Slot sought to put the matter to rest during his Friday press briefing, emphasizing that all parties had "moved forward."
Speaking to Sky Sports, Jones, who previously criticized Liverpool's displays following their Champions League defeat to PSV Eindhoven in November, detailed Salah's words to the squad upon his return to the group.
"Mo speaks for himself and expresses his thoughts freely," Jones explained. "He said sorry to the team and told us, 'If I've impacted anyone or caused any negative feelings, I apologize.' That shows his character.
"I can only comment based on my relationship with Mo and how he behaved in this situation. He remained upbeat throughout. He was the same Mo we know, wearing his usual big grin, and everyone treated him normally. I think it's simply part of his desire to succeed, and he won't be the final player to feel this way.
"I understand there are proper channels for handling things, but if someone is content sitting on the sidelines without wanting to contribute and assist the team, that would be a bigger concern."
"Whenever any of us have shown frustration, myself included, it's always come from the right intentions. In those moments, it might not have been expressed properly, but it was never meant to harm the team, coaching staff, manager, or anyone else. We've moved beyond that now and we're bonding well as a unit, performing better and beginning to secure victories."
Jones Fully Appreciative of Supporter Unrest
Liverpool's disappointing streak has left them trailing league leaders Arsenal by 10 points, having already accumulated six losses in 16 matches—more defeats than they endured during Slot's entire inaugural campaign.
However, the 1–0 triumph against Inter in European competition has marked the beginning of a five-match unbeaten streak across all tournaments—indicating Liverpool might be finding their rhythm despite clear defensive weaknesses.
Jones recognizes the importance of delivering steady performances for the supporters while maintaining team harmony. He emphasizes that unity will restore Liverpool to their desired position—explaining why there's no resentment toward Salah, Slot, or other team members.
"Being from Liverpool, I understand what this means to the community, supporters, club, and everyone here," Jones stated. "This is probably my first experience dealing with such circumstances. There were several reasons I decided to speak out. I was simply being truthful. I'll express my opinions, even if they sometimes cause friction.
"Anyone familiar with me knows I despise losing, whether it's card games, training sessions, or anything else. Now that I'm in the first team as a local lad who grew up supporting this club, I'm playing both as a footballer and a fan simultaneously. I know how deeply it affects supporters, and it impacts me identically. I carry that extra burden that we must not lose.
"I felt frustrated but also surprised at the same time. It was encouraging to see how the players responded. They didn't point fingers at Mo, the manager, each other, or anyone else. Everyone took personal responsibility.
"I spoke about the team needing to work harder, show more determination and competitiveness. I wasn't excluding myself from that—it applies to me too. That's what you're witnessing now, and that's why I believe everything is transforming."