Liverpool coach Arne Slot reveals Salah’s AFCON departure date

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has confirmed that Mohamed Salah will join Egypt for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations duty on December 15.

The forward will therefore miss Liverpool’s Premier League fixtures against Tottenham Hotspur on December 20 and Wolverhampton Wanderers on December 27. Should Egypt progress deep into the competition, Salah could also be absent for matches against Leeds United (January 1), Fulham (January 4), Arsenal (January 8), and Burnley (January 17).

Despite Salah’s departure arriving during a crucial phase of the season, Slot insists the 33-year-old remains vital to Liverpool’s ambitions. He praised the Egyptian captain’s professionalism following his omission from the starting lineup in the recent win over West Ham United.

“Of course, a player is not happy if he’s not starting, but he was very supportive of his teammates,” Slot said on Tuesday. “He’s a top professional.”

Salah has scored four goals and provided two assists in 12 Premier League matches this campaign, and his influence continues to be central to Liverpool’s attacking output.

The seven-time African champions open their AFCON campaign on December 22 as they chase a first continental title since 2010.