Charlie Austin wants Mohammed Salah to return to Liverpool squad after AFCON 2025

Former Burnley striker Charlie Austin has weighed in on Mohamed Salah’s growing rift with Liverpool, backing the Egyptian international’s return after the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Salah’s future has been under scrutiny since a heated post-match interview in which he complained about being benched and hinted at a broken relationship with the club.

Amid feud with coach Arne Slot, the experience winger was dropped from the sides Champions League clash against Inter Milan, where the premier League giants managed a narrow away win.

For Austin, he expects the former African Footballer of the Year to return to Liverpool squad after the continental showpiece in Morocco.

Salah is expected to represent Egypt at the 35^th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations to be staged in the North African country between December 2025 and January 2026.

Speaking on Sky Sports News, Austin said the saga escalated earlier than expected, noting, “Look, what we are dealing with at the moment… I think it’s come too soon.” He added that summer would have been a more suitable time for decisions on Salah’s future.

Austin insisted, “After this time, I don’t see why he doesn’t play for Liverpool again after AFCON… he is Liverpool’s best player.” He suggested many teammates may be relieved Salah is “taking the flak” during the club’s poor run.

Meanwhile, Saudi clubs are expected to revive their long-standing interest as the January window approaches.