Liverpool manager Arne Slot has confirmed that Mohamed Salah is expected to return from injury before the season ends, insisting the Egyptian superstar "deserves a big send-off" as his Anfield exit looms.
The 33-year-old forward, who will leave Liverpool at the conclusion of the campaign, was forced off during last weekend's 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace at home. As he made his way off the pitch, Salah received a standing ovation from the Anfield faithful — a moment that sparked fears he may have played his final game for the club.
However, Liverpool confirmed on Wednesday that Salah had suffered only a "minor muscle injury" and is expected to return to action before the season wraps up. Slot provided further clarity during his pre-match press conference on Friday: "We expect him to be back in the final part of the season, but not for Sunday. It's a big relief that his injury is minor, so that he's able to play for us and also able to feature in the World Cup. And if there's ever a player who deserves to get a big send-off, it's definitely Mo."
Salah's legacy at Liverpool is nothing short of legendary. Since arriving at Anfield in 2017, he has scored 257 goals in 440 appearances, placing him third on the club's all-time scoring list behind only Ian Rush and Roger Hunt. His contributions have been instrumental in Liverpool's recent success, including a Premier League title and a Champions League triumph.
The relationship between Salah and Slot has not always been smooth. In December, the forward publicly stated he had "no relationship" with the Dutch manager after being dropped for three consecutive games. But Slot later downplayed the tension, saying there was "no issue to resolve" once Salah returned to the lineup.
Liverpool currently sit on a three-match winning streak, putting them firmly in contention for a Champions League spot next season. With four games remaining, starting with a crucial trip to face Manchester United on Sunday, the Reds will be eager to finish the campaign strong — and perhaps give their departing hero one last memorable moment on the pitch.
As speculation swirls over Salah's next destination, clubs in the Saudi Pro League and Major League Soccer in the United States have been linked with a move for the prolific forward. For now, though, all eyes are on whether Salah can lace up his boots one more time for Liverpool before bidding an emotional farewell.