Liverpool manager Arne Slot has confirmed that Mohamed Salah is expected to return from injury before the end of the season, raising the prospect of a final appearance at Anfield before his anticipated departure.
The Egyptian forward sustained a hamstring injury during Liverpool’s most recent Premier League fixture against Crystal Palace. Initial concerns have since eased, with the club indicating the injury is minor and unlikely to impact his longer-term availability, including his expected involvement with Egypt at the 2026 World Cup.
Salah to miss Manchester United clash
Speaking ahead of Liverpool’s upcoming league meeting with Manchester United, Slot confirmed that Salah will not feature in Sunday’s fixture.
“As we know, Salah is working hard, whether he is fit or injured, to return as soon as possible. We believe he will return towards the end of the season, but not on Sunday.”
The absence rules him out of one of English football’s most high-profile encounters, but the manager made clear that the player’s recovery remains on track.
Positive prognosis offers relief
Slot expressed optimism about Salah’s condition, emphasising that the injury is not severe and should allow the forward to resume playing duties before the campaign concludes.
“It is a relief that his injury is minor, which will allow him to play with us and in the World Cup. If there is a player who deserves a farewell befitting him, it is undoubtedly Salah.”
While no exact return date has been provided, the timeline suggests Salah could feature in Liverpool’s closing fixtures of the season.
Final matches could define farewell
Following the clash at Old Trafford, Liverpool have three Premier League matches remaining. Two of those will take place at Anfield, against Chelsea and Brentford, with an away trip to Aston Villa in between.
Earlier reports indicated that Salah could be sidelined for up to four weeks, a timeframe that would potentially see him return in time for the final round of the season. Such a scenario would place his comeback in the home fixture against Brentford, offering a possible opportunity for a farewell appearance in front of Liverpool supporters.
Legacy and potential goodbye
Salah’s expected departure at the end of the campaign adds further significance to his recovery timeline. After nine seasons at the club, he leaves behind a record of individual accolades and contributions to multiple team successes.
His impact has cemented his status as one of Liverpool’s most influential figures in recent history, and any return before the season’s conclusion is likely to carry emotional weight.
Uncertainty remains despite optimism
Although the medical outlook is encouraging, uncertainty persists regarding the exact timing of Salah’s return. What remains clear is that Liverpool are preparing for the closing stages of the season without their leading forward, while supporters await confirmation of whether they will see him in action at Anfield one final time.
For now, attention turns to his rehabilitation, with the possibility that his final moments in a Liverpool shirt could unfold on home soil.
