Liverpool manager Arne Slot has confirmed that Mohamed Salah remains a central figure in his plans despite being left out of the starting line-up in the past two Premier League matches. The 33-year-old Egypt forward, who has scored 250 goals in 420 appearances since joining Liverpool in 2017, played only 45 minutes across the last two games, fueling speculation about his role in the team amid a challenging season.

Salah’s Recent Form and Playing Time

Salah has scored just four goals in Liverpool’s underwhelming start to the 2025/26 Premier League campaign. After being an unused substitute in the 1-0 win at West Ham, he was again limited to a substitute appearance in the 1-1 home draw with Sunderland.

Despite this, Slot emphasized that Salah is “always in my mind” when considering the team selection:
“For every player in my mind can start, and Mo is an exceptional player for us. He is always in my mind to either start or to come off the bench.”

Salah was instrumental in Liverpool’s title-winning campaign last season, scoring 29 goals under Slot’s management, highlighting his enduring quality even in a period of inconsistent form.

Liverpool Captain Virgil van Dijk Comments

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk reinforced the idea that no player is untouchable at the club, stating that Slot’s decision reflects performance expectations:
“He is still a fantastic player, and we still have to remember there is a reason why he has been so successful at the club and we have to respect that. He’s disappointed, but that’s absolutely normal if you’re not playing two games in a row.”

Van Dijk emphasized Salah’s leadership role within the squad, making it clear that his contributions off the pitch remain vital.

Salah’s Record and Upcoming Challenges

Salah boasts a phenomenal record against Leeds United, having scored nine goals in six Premier League matches. Ahead of Liverpool’s trip to Elland Road, questions remain over whether Salah will start, although analysts suggest it is likely given his history against the Yorkshire side.

This season, however, Salah’s scoring rate has dipped significantly. He is currently averaging one goal every 280 minutes, compared to 117 minutes per goal in the previous campaign, reflecting both his form and Liverpool’s broader struggles. The team sits ninth in the Premier League, 11 points behind leaders Arsenal, with just two wins in their past nine games.

Future Prospects and Africa Cup of Nations

Salah is expected to join Egypt for the Africa Cup of Nations after Liverpool’s next match, adding further uncertainty to the Reds’ attacking setup. How Liverpool perform in his absence could shape the club’s strategy for life post-Salah, as Slot navigates the team through a turbulent season.

Analysis: Likely Start Against Leeds

Liverpool’s reliance on Salah’s experience and record suggests that he will likely start at Leeds, offering the team a chance to regain momentum before the Africa Cup of Nations. Slot’s comments indicate a careful balancing act, acknowledging both Salah’s past influence and the need to manage squad performance in a challenging season.