Is Mohamed Salah’s Liverpool era fading? Arne Slot reveals reason for benching the Egyptian for the first time
Liverpool have struggled to find their footing, as they accumulate three consecutive losses by more than three goals, which deeply impacts their current standing. However, they have the chance to reverse their situation, facing West Ham looking for a victory. Despite the urgency of the game, Arne Slot made the surprising decision to bench Mohamed Salah for the first time in Premier League since he took over as coach. He then revealed the real reason behind his decision.
Ahead of today’s game against West Ham United, Slot opted for an unusual lineup, placing Alexander Isak as the starting striker and Dominik Szoboszlai on the right wing. Additionally, the coach chose to incorporate Florian Wirtz into the midfield despite his inconsistent form. Salah being benched sparked questions about whether his tenure with the Reds was nearing its end; however, Arne clarified the real reason behind his decision.
“We played four games in 10 days. I have many good players so today I chose a different line-up. Sometimes Alex (Isak) is on the bench, sometimes Florian (Wirtz). It’s about the players on the pitch. It’s the 11 I chose. I have more than 11 good players and it’s not the first time I’ve chosen not to play Mo. (Salah),“ Arne Slot said, via Sky Sports.
Even though Arne tried to downplay the situation, this is the first time he has left Mohamed Salah out of the starting lineup when he’s fully fit to play in the Premier League. The Egyptian may have been one of the team’s best players for several years, but his 2025-26 season has left a lot to be desired. In 18 games, he has managed to score only 5 goals and record 3 assists. For this reason, the coach’s decision could hint at an era that seems to be coming to an end.
Alexander Isak signing reportedly hints big Liverpool plan with Salah
Mohamed Salah is coming off an impressive 2024-25 season, which earned him a significant contract extension with Liverpool until 2027. Despite this, they made the million-dollar signing of Alexander Isak, causing confusion among fans. Although he has not managed to take off in terms of performance, the arrival of the Swede is supposedly the result of strategic planning by the Reds with the Egyptian ahead the upcoming seasons.
As reported by Jonathan Northcroft at Times Sport, Liverpool made the decision to sign Isak for an impressive $170 million, anticipating a decline in Salah’s form and his potential departure from the team. For that reason, coach Arne Slot can rely on Alexander and Hugo Ekitike as leaders of the offense once the Egyptian departs the Reds. However, Salah’s departure could prove challenging before 2027, given his status as a legendary figure on the team.