Mohamed Salah Breaks Silence in Unprecedented Press Gathering Amidst Liverpool Comeback Speculation
Mohamed Salah addressed a rare press conference, updating on his injury situation and discussing plans for his return to Liverpool.
His premature departure in Egypt’s Africa Cup of Nations clash against Ghana last Thursday, concluding in a 2-2 draw, was due to a hamstring injury, sidelining him for Egypt’s upcoming fixtures against Cape Verde and a potential Round of 16 match.
The 31-year-old is anticipated to undergo treatment at his club and could rejoin Egypt in the tournament’s later stages if they advance beyond the group phase.
Speaking at the press conference, Salah emphasized that his injury should not take precedence over the impending crucial match against Cape Verde. “I am happy to be here; my injury is still there, but the most important thing is to speak about the game,” he expressed via Liverpool Echo. “We have great players and a great team, and we just need to fight and see what is going to happen.”
Despite the setback, Salah exuded confidence in Egypt’s abilities, stating, “We have great players, and this is the best 20 players in Egypt, so we need to play our game with courage and confidence, and I believe we are going to win the game.”
Expressing his ambition, Salah added, “I would love to win it, absolutely. I’ve won everything possible [with Liverpool] but not this one, yet. I believe it will happen; everything I believe I achieve, so it will happen. Sooner or later, it will happen.”
Reflecting on the competitive nature of African football, Salah highlighted the improving standards, crediting players performing in Europe and citing Morocco’s World Cup semi-final run as evidence of the continent’s progress.
Meanwhile, Liverpool showcased their strength in Salah’s absence, securing a 4-0 victory against Bournemouth on Sunday.
Post-match, Jurgen Klopp affirmed Salah’s return to the club, stating, “That’s the plan, if that’s already decided 100 per cent, I don’t know but that’s the plan.” Klopp acknowledged the sensible approach of having Salah undergo rehabilitation with the club’s medical team.
Regarding Salah’s potential return to AFCON, Klopp mentioned, “I’m not a doctor, but if he’s fit before the final, probably yes. Why not, it’s clear, that’s the tournament.”
However, Klopp emphasized the importance of player well-being, noting, “Ivory Coast is a wonderful country, but it’s probably better now for players, we have no people from us there, and their people have to take care of the players who are playing.”