Liverpool’s star player, Mohamed Salah, may face missing up to 10 matches following a recent FIFA ruling. Despite securing a new contract with Liverpool, Salah’s availability for the 2025/26 season has been cast into doubt due to an ongoing issue linked to international commitments. The Egyptian forward’s contract extension with Liverpool, announced last week, binds him to Anfield until June 2027, ensuring the club benefits from his talent for at least two more seasons.
During the current season, Salah has displayed exceptional form, with 32 goals and 23 assists in 46 appearances across various competitions. Close to securing the Premier League Golden Boot, he has set a new record by being involved in 45 goals, surpassing a previous record held by Thierry Henry. Salah’s decision to commit to Liverpool for a longer period was influenced by the team’s progress under Arne Slot, with the hope of competing for more trophies.
However, Liverpool faces a familiar challenge with the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, a tournament that has historically disrupted the club’s plans. Salah’s participation in the tournament last season led to his absence from several Liverpool games, as he honored his national team duties. The upcoming tournament’s shift to December to January poses a greater challenge for Premier League clubs with African players, as it coincides with a busy period in the league calendar.
Egypt, a team with a successful history in the Africa Cup of Nations, is expected to progress through the tournament’s stages, potentially leading to Salah’s extended absence from Liverpool matches. Salah’s absence could impact Liverpool significantly, as the club navigates the congested festive period in the Premier League with crucial fixtures.
Recognizing the potential impact of Salah’s absence, Liverpool’s management is already strategizing to mitigate the effects of the Africa Cup of Nations disruption on their 2025/26 campaign. Manager Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes are expected to bolster the squad’s depth during the summer transfer window to ensure continuity and performance in Salah’s absence. Liverpool’s preparations indicate a proactive approach to handling Salah’s international commitments to maintain their competitiveness in the upcoming season.
Despite the challenges posed by Salah’s potential absence, Liverpool remains optimistic about their prospects for the 2025/26 season. The club’s experience in managing similar situations in the past provides a foundation for developing contingency plans. As the squad prepares for Salah’s likely participation in the Africa Cup of Nations, Liverpool aims to maintain their competitive edge and pursue success in domestic and international competitions.
As Liverpool awaits the official fixture release for the 2025/26 season in June, the club anticipates Salah’s potential absence during a critical period. The strategic planning and recruitment efforts during the transfer window are crucial components of Liverpool’s proactive approach, ensuring the team’s resilience and competitiveness in Salah’s absence. The club’s focus on squad depth and tactical adjustments reflects their commitment to overcoming challenges and sustaining their performance standards in the upcoming season.