African star Salah recalled to Liverpool squad for Brighton clash after turbulent week

Egypt forward Mohamed Salah has been recalled to Liverpool’s matchday squad for the Premier League clash against Brighton & Hove Albion at Anfield, Soccernet.ng reports.

Reports from Sky Sports reveal that the 2017 African Player of the Year has been included in the matchday squad to face Fabian Hürzeler’s men.

This development follows a chaotic week dominated by the Egyptian’s explosive interview and widespread criticism from football fans as well as former players.

BREAKING: Mohamed Salah has been included in the Liverpool squad for Saturday's Premier League game against Brighton pic.twitter.com/f35xURZkWq

— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) December 12, 2025

Arne Slot had previously left the 33-year-old out of the squad for their midweek fixture against Inter, with reports suggesting that the club wanted to cool tensions following his controversial comments.

However, his return today signals a renewed effort from the Reds to stabilise the situation as the team struggles for form.

What Happened Between Salah and Liverpool?

The saga began after Liverpool’s 3–3 draw with Leeds United, where Salah expressed deep frustration over his reduced playing time and the club’s handling of his future.

He suggested that promises made in the summer were broken and hinted at internal resistance, stating that someone within the club “doesn’t want me here.” The fallout was immediate.

Reports then indicated that the Merseyside club were preparing to omit Salah from their Inter fixture—not as punishment, but as a strategic decision to avoid further distractions.

Charlie Austin: What the Ex-Burnley Forward Said

Former Burnley striker Charlie Austin offered a contrasting view, insisting Salah remains indispensable:

“I’d have probably envisioned this saga happening around mid-April… then in the summer they’d agree something and he’d move on. But at this time, I don’t see why he doesn’t play for Liverpool after AFCON. He’s Liverpool’s talisman, he’s their best player.”

Austin also suggested that some Reds' players may privately welcome Salah absorbing the bulk of the criticism, but insisted that the team’s poor form without him is “no surprise”.

Soccernet’s Verdict

Salah’s recall is a temporary fix—but the long-term picture remains uncertain.

With the January window open, the forward is entering what may be a now-or-never moment regarding a possible move to Saudi Arabia.

His contract situation and recent comments all point toward the growing possibility of an exit in the coming months.