Ibrahima Konaté expects Mohamed Salah to return to Liverpool after the Africa Cup of Nations and dismisses suggestions that the forward has already played his final match for the club amid persistent transfer speculation.
Reports continue to link Salah with interest from the Saudi Pro League and Major League Soccer following tension sparked by his recent public comments about Liverpool and head coach Arne Slot.
The debate over his future gathered pace after Virgil van Dijk addressed the situation, with Konaté adding his own perspective.
“Personally, no, I don’t think [Salah played his last game for Liverpool]. You saw how much he loves this club,” the France defender told Canal+.
Konaté urged observers to view the situation with balance and understanding, stressing the emotional weight that accompanies a career of sustained success at the highest level.
“What happened to him needs to be understood, as well as the frustration sometimes felt by players who have such a career, who have achieved so much,” he said. “He’s a player everyone loves, the coach loves him, he loves the coach, everyone appreciates each other at this club.”
Salah’s comments followed a run of three consecutive matches on the bench, a decision that surprised many given his influence and consistency across nine celebrated years at Anfield.
During that period, the Egyptian forward has delivered decisive goals, relentless output, and leadership that shaped Liverpool’s modern era.
Despite reduced minutes in recent weeks, Salah remains a central figure within the squad, and teammates continue to underline his importance in the dressing room.
Konaté’s remarks reflect a broader belief among players that the relationship between Salah and the club remains strong.
Attention now turns to international duty, with Salah preparing to join Egypt for the Africa Cup of Nations.
His departure for the tournament adds another layer of uncertainty, as speculation intensifies over what awaits him upon his return to Merseyside.
For now, Konaté’s stance offers a clear message from within the squad. He sees commitment, mutual respect, and unfinished business rather than a farewell.
As Liverpool navigate a sensitive moment in their season, the focus remains on results on the pitch while questions about Salah’s long-term future continue to follow him beyond Anfield.
