Liverpool’s Pre-Season Uncertainty with Mohamed Salah’s Busy Summer
Liverpool’s ambitions for a robust start to the upcoming Premier League season face potential challenges due to Mohamed Salah’s involvement in international duties for Egypt. Known for his resilience and scoring prowess, Salah’s scheduling conflicts could impact his pre-season preparations with Liverpool.
Here is the official Pharaohs' squad list for June Camp 🙌#egyptnt pic.twitter.com/n5Mj6SBohl
— Egypt National Team (@EgyptNT_EN) May 26, 2024
Salah’s Injury and Recovery Struggles
In a significant blow to Liverpool, Mohamed Salah sustained a hamstring injury at the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year. Renowned for his durability under Jurgen Klopp, Salah’s fitness had been exemplary until this setback. Following an attempted comeback against Brentford in February, Salah experienced a re-injury, sparking concerns over his condition for the remainder of the season.
As Liverpool’s season progressed, the team’s form dipped, with Salah often receiving criticism for his performances. Despite his struggles, the forward’s contribution to the team remains vital, underscored by his impressive tally of 211 goals for the club.
Contract Uncertainty and Transfer Buzz
Amidst his recovery and performance issues, Salah’s future at Liverpool has become a hot topic. With his contract set to expire next year and no new deal in sight, transfer rumours have surfaced, linking him with a move away from Anfield. Clubs like Al-Ittihad have shown interest, potentially offering Liverpool a lucrative exit route for their star.
Heavy International Commitments
Egypt has called up Salah for the World Cup qualifiers against Burkina Faso and Guinea Bissau, adding to his packed schedule. The matches are slated for early June, with Salah expected to play prominently. Moreover, Salah might also feature in the Paris Olympics if negotiations between Liverpool and the Egyptian Football Association conclude favourably. Egypt’s Olympic coach, Rogerio Micale, expressed a keen desire to have Salah on the team, stating, “We definitely want him with us. I wish Salah could play with us at the Olympics.”
Implications for Liverpool’s Pre-Season
If Egypt advances to the final stages of their competitions, Salah could be occupied until just a week before the Premier League kicks off. Liverpool’s new coach, Arne Slot, plans to start pre-season training in early July, meaning Salah and other international players might miss crucial initial training sessions. Liverpool’s pre-season schedule includes matches in the United States against notable teams like Real Betis, Arsenal, and Manchester United, starting from late July.
Liverpool is keen to see Salah return in top form, particularly as they aim to make a strong impression in the upcoming season after a series of underwhelming finishes. The team’s strategy heavily relies on Salah’s goal-scoring abilities and overall influence on the pitch.
Mohamed Salah’s summer could shape Liverpool’s preparations for a pivotal season. While the club and its fans hope for his swift return to peak condition, the overlapping commitments for Egypt pose a logistical and physical challenge for the star forward. As the situation unfolds, Liverpool will need to adapt their pre-season plans, ensuring that their key players are fit and ready to compete at the highest level.