Liverpool returned to winning form in the Premier League with a 2-0 victory over Brighton at Anfield on Saturday. The highlight of the match was a brace from Hugo Ekitike, which secured the win, while the second goal stood out due to an assist from Egyptian superstar Mohamed Salah following a tumultuous week for him at the club.
Positive dialogue with manager Arne Slot led to Salah’s inclusion in the squad, and he entered the match sooner than expected after Joe Gomez exited due to injury, coming on in the 22nd minute. While it wasn’t his best performance—recording three shots and an assist—his contribution was significant given the recent tension surrounding his future, particularly after claims that the club wished to move him on.
Salah is set to join the Egyptian national team for the Africa Cup of Nations. However, Arne Slot remains optimistic about his eventual return to Liverpool after the tournament amid ongoing transfer speculation.
“Actions speak louder than what I can say about it. [Salah] was here, so that tells you how the conversation yesterday went, and he was the first substitute I made, so that already gives an answer to all the questions that you have,” Slot stated after the match.
“He goes to AFCON, and we have many games to play. He’s a Liverpool player, so I expect him to return afterward.”
With interest from the Saudi Premier League, questions linger about Salah’s future once the January transfer window opens. However, according to his manager, it remains at Liverpool. While Slot’s comments are limited, the fact that Salah was involved following a series of benchings—especially during the Champions League victory against Inter—is a positive shift.
Fans showed their support by chanting his name as he was the last to leave the pitch at Anfield. It was not a farewell moment but certainly a meaningful one for Salah.
This assist marked Salah’s third of the Premier League season and illustrated the breakout form of Ekitike, who’s now found the net seven times in the league. As Salah’s scoring output has dipped this season, Ekitike’s rise has proved to be a bright spot for Liverpool during a challenging campaign, especially as Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz have struggled to find their feet.
With Salah’s absence due to international duty, Ekitike will need to step up, but if both can gel upon Salah’s return from AFCON, Liverpool’s chances might improve. Despite the uncertainties surrounding Salah’s future, his path appears more promising following this match.
