Arne Slot expressed his discomfort about benching Mohamed Salah, acknowledging the striker’s eight incredible seasons at Liverpool. He stated a strong preference for Salah to be on the pitch, creating special moments, rather than being a frustrated substitute.
Slot made a significant decision, omitting Salah from the starting lineup against West Ham, a move that helped the Premier League champions break their poor run. Salah, slated to join the Africa Cup of Nations on December 15, has struggled with form this season, leaving his return against Sunderland uncertain.
Slot clarified that Salah’s absence against West Ham does not signal a new era for Liverpool, affirming the 33-year-old’s ongoing importance to the club. However, he admitted that seeing Salah benched was tough for both the player and the entire Liverpool community.