Salah’s Reaction in Frankfurt Raises New Challenge for Slot
Liverpool’s emphatic 5-1 win over Eintracht Frankfurt should have been a straightforward reminder of their quality under Arne Slot. Instead, attention has shifted to Mohamed Salah, whose reaction after being substituted reignited discussion around his form and role within the team.
Salah’s Reduced Role Under Slot
For the first time since his arrival in 2017, Salah has found himself named on the bench for consecutive Champions League fixtures. It is a rare sight for a player long regarded as the cornerstone of Liverpool’s attack. Introduced in the 74th minute with the score already beyond doubt, the Egyptian international managed three shots – two on target – and an expected goals tally of 0.42. Yet, he was left without the goal he seemed so determined to find.
What followed caught the attention of Mail Sport journalist Lewis Steele, who observed Salah heading straight down the tunnel at full-time. The image of Liverpool’s No.11 leaving the pitch visibly frustrated told its own story – one of a player not accustomed to a supporting role.
Questions Over Mindset and Team Balance
Salah’s decision to take on a shot rather than square the ball to Florian Wirtz late in the game only added fuel to speculation about his mindset. Wirtz, who had already registered two assists in a standout performance, appeared visibly disappointed. It was a moment that might have crowned his night and reinforced his growing influence within the team.
Jamie Carragher recently suggested that Salah might no longer be an automatic starter for Liverpool – a statement that divided opinion among supporters. Yet, it reflects the reality of a side in transition. Slot’s emphasis on high-intensity pressing and positional interchange places new demands on senior players, and maintaining harmony amid that evolution is a delicate balancing act.
Slot’s Management of Elite Personalities
Arne Slot has shown tactical clarity and composure since taking charge, but managing a figure of Salah’s stature presents a different kind of test. The Dutchman must now navigate the fine line between rotation and recognition – ensuring Salah feels valued while integrating new signings like Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike.
With a demanding schedule ahead, Slot has made it clear that no player is immune to rotation. Yet the image of Salah’s solitary walk to the tunnel could prompt questions about whether the message has been received as intended. Maintaining dressing-room unity, especially among players with Salah’s influence and record, will be critical as Liverpool chase silverware on multiple fronts.
Liverpool’s European Statement
It should not be overlooked that this was one of Liverpool’s most complete performances of the season. Goals from Ekitike, Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, Cody Gakpo and Dominik Szoboszlai reflected both balance and intent. Slot’s side pressed with intensity, attacked with fluency, and looked more cohesive than in recent weeks.
The win ended a frustrating run of results and reaffirmed Liverpool’s threat in Europe. However, the narrative surrounding Salah’s reaction threatens to overshadow the collective progress on display. As the squad prepares for a trip to Brentford, attention will inevitably turn to whether Salah regains his starting place – and how Slot handles the situation moving forward.
Liverpool’s next selection could offer the clearest indication yet of how the manager intends to manage one of the club’s defining figures of the modern era.
