He was not happy — Liverpool boss Slot confirms Salah AFCON exit

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has revealed that his unhappy forward Mohamed Salah, will depart for AFCON 2025 imminently.

Arne Slot has acknowledged that star forward Mohamed Salah was unhappy about being left out of the starting lineup for the Reds' 2-0 victory over Liverpool on Sunday afternoon.

Salah was named as a substitute for the Premier League fixture at the London Stadium, a significant move by Slot aimed at reversing a recent slump in form.

The Egyptian international remained on the bench for the entire 90 minutes as goals from Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo delivered the victory.

Slot opens up on benching Salah amid AFCON exit

Addressing the decision, Slot described Salah's reaction as understandable for a player of his caliber.

"It was a normal reaction for a player who is good enough to play for us," Slot stated.

"I say that mildly, as he’s been so outstanding for this club and will be in the future. He wasn’t happy he wasn’t starting, but he wasn’t the only one."

The manager's tactical change appeared to pay off, with goals from Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo sealing the win for the Reds.

Salah, 33, may be in line for a return to the starting eleven when Liverpool hosts Sunderland in their upcoming Premier League match on Wednesday night.

He is expected to be available for the next four games before departing to join the Egyptian national team for the Africa Cup of Nations.

Slot confirmed the timeline for Salah's departure, stating, "It’s December 15."

“But always in these situations there is the player and the national team involved and there are always talks about what is best for all three of us.”