Slot Hails Salah’s Professionalism After Being Benched

Liverpool manager Arne Slot has praised Mohamed Salah for his professionalism following the forward’s first Premier League benching since April 2024.

Salah, who scored 29 goals last season to claim the Golden Boot, was left out of the starting XI for Sunday’s 2-0 win at West Ham amid a difficult run for Liverpool, who have suffered nine defeats in 12 games across all competitions. The Egyptian has scored just four league goals this season.

Slot admitted it was natural for Salah to feel disappointed about being benched. “Any player of his quality would feel that way. He has been a key player for this club for many years and continues to be,” he said.

Despite missing out, Salah maintained discipline and a professional attitude. “He knows how to stay fit and focused, and that is what makes him a top professional. His behavior over the past two days has been exemplary,” Slot added.

Slot also noted that all players experience ups and downs in form and playing time. “He has scored so many goals for us, and I am confident he will continue to do so,” he said.

Liverpool will be without Salah from 15 December when he departs for the Africa Cup of Nations, which concludes on 18 January 2026. Currently eighth in the league, nine points behind leaders Arsenal, Liverpool face Sunderland on Wednesday before traveling to Leeds on Saturday.