2025 AFCON: Egypt push for early Mohamed Salah call-up in major blow to Liverpool

Liverpool face a major dilemma as Egypt reportedly want Mohamed Salah to join their Africa Cup of Nations squad earlier than expected.

The 33-year-old winger could miss more Premier League matches than initially anticipated, complicating manager Arne Slot’s plans during a critical phase of the season.

Salah is already confirmed to miss fixtures against Brighton, Tottenham, Wolves, Leeds United, and Fulham. If Egypt progress beyond the group stage, absences could extend to seven or eight games.

Talks between Liverpool and Egypt are ongoing, with both sides maintaining positive relations while attempting to reach an agreement before Salah is required by the national team.

Ibrahim Hassan, Egypt’s team director, confirmed ongoing discussions. “We are still in contact with Liverpool and Manchester City at the moment for this matter,” he said.

Egypt is among the favourites in the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, making an early return for Salah unlikely unless the Pharaohs exit the group stage unexpectedly.

Salah will not feature in Egypt’s friendly against Cape Verde on Monday in Al Ain, UAE, as he is being rested ahead of the tournament.

“The Egyptian national football team…held its training session…giving Mohamed Salah a rest, and his non-participation in the Cape Verde friendly,” the statement read, noting injury absences for teammates Ahmed Sayed Zizo and Hamdi Fathi.

Liverpool face a packed schedule in December and January, including clashes against top-six rivals and league leaders Arsenal, making Salah’s potential absence a serious concern for their title ambitions.

Egypt’s management aims to balance Salah’s fitness with national team objectives, while Liverpool seek assurances that their star player will be protected during this critical period.

How long Salah remains away will depend on Egypt’s AFCON progress and final agreements with Liverpool, with the club closely monitoring his workload to safeguard the title challenge.