Mohamed Salah’s unexpected spell on the Liverpool bench is becoming one of the biggest talking points of Arne Slot’s reign — but the Reds boss has now given a major hint that the Egyptian superstar could be restored to the starting XI against Leeds United.
Salah has endured an uncharacteristically difficult season so far, scoring just four league goals in 13 games, a stark contrast to last year’s Golden Boot–winning campaign. Yet, despite criticism from pundits and questions regarding his influence, Slot insists Salah is “always in my mind,” suggesting a potential return to prominence at Elland Road.
Salah’s Challenge: Adapting to a New Liverpool
This season has been full of change for Liverpool’s forward line. The summer signings of Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz brought new weapons to the attack, while the departure of long-time right-back partner Trent Alexander-Arnold disrupted one of the Premier League’s most productive duos.
Salah’s finishing has been inconsistent, and his off-ball work — once among his greatest strengths — has been labelled as “declining” by club legend Jamie Carragher, who argues the Egyptian must lead with more intensity on and off the pitch.
After being benched for the win over West Ham and used only as a second-half substitute in the draw with Sunderland, Salah’s status has been under scrutiny like never before.
Slot: “Every Player Is in My Mind — and Mo Is Exceptional”
Ahead of the trip to Leeds, Slot addressed the situation calmly but clearly:
“I think every player in my mind can start — and Mo is an exceptional player for us. He is always in my mind to either start or come from the bench.”
Slot also brushed off the media noise, saying the scrutiny is “completely normal” for a player who has been a defining figure for Liverpool over the past seven years.
The Dutchman also supported Florian Wirtz, who has found himself under pressure during his adaptation to English football but impressed during the Sunderland match with moments of invention and involvement in the equaliser.
Redknapp: “Salah Won’t Accept Being a Bit-Part Player”
[IMAGE 4: Jamie Redknapp in Sky Sports studio]
Caption: Redknapp believes Salah will consider his future if the benching continues.
Sky Sports’ Jamie Redknapp poured fuel onto the debate, suggesting that Salah may not tolerate reduced minutes:
“There is no way Salah is going to be content being a bit-part player. If things don’t go his way, he deserves the right to move on — maybe in January, maybe in the summer.”
Redknapp even hinted that a “break in trust” could push the Egyptian toward an exit if his role continues to diminish.
Leeds Await — and Slot Expects a War
Liverpool now head to Elland Road seeking a response after a disappointing performance against Sunderland, where defensive errors again proved costly.
Slot expects a fierce battle, praising Leeds’ intensity:
“Leeds went very aggressive in one-v-one situations and used a low block to stop chances. It is difficult for us, as it is for many teams.”
Leeds have shown they can hurt big sides, coming from two goals down against Manchester City and frustrating Chelsea with disciplined defensive work.
For Liverpool, a win is essential to regain momentum — and the spotlight is firmly on whether Salah returns to the lineup to help deliver it.