Mo Salah Responds to Egyptian Critics, Reveals Recovery Timeline Following AFCON Injury
Liverpool’s star player, Mohamed Salah, has fired back at critics questioning his commitment to the Egyptian national team after he left the squad for treatment due to a hamstring injury suffered during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The controversy sparked after Salah’s return to Liverpool for treatment following Egypt’s nerve-wracking 2-2 draw against Cape Verde in the group stage, securing their spot in the knockout rounds.
The 31-year-old forward, who was facing backlash from some fans in Egypt, took to social media to address the situation. Salah posted, “Yesterday I started the treatment and rehabilitation program, and I will do everything possible to be ready as soon as possible and return to the national team as was agreed upon from the beginning. I also love it and its people… try harder.”
The tension escalated further when Egypt’s manager, Rui Vitoria, criticized Liverpool’s Jurgen Klopp for revealing Salah’s return plans before the final group game. Klopp, however, attempted to defuse the situation, emphasizing their shared goal of getting Salah fit quickly.
“We haven’t spoken about it, I haven’t seen him for that,” said Klopp. “That’s the world we are living in. Most people in Egypt understand the situation because we have exactly the same target as Egypt. Make Mo as fit as quickly as possible.”
"All parties agreed on that it makes sense that he [Mohamed Salah] is doing the rehab here" 🤝
Jürgen Klopp on Mohamed Salah returning from AFCON to do his rehab in Liverpool 🏥 pic.twitter.com/hDrVqlGTSV
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) January 25, 2024
Klopp clarified that all parties agreed to Salah doing rehab at Liverpool, with the understanding that he would return to Egypt if fit before the tournament’s conclusion.
The Egyptian national team faces DR Congo in the last 16, with Salah’s participation dependent on his recovery. The Pharaohs aim to secure a record-extending eighth AFCON title.
As the drama unfolds, the spotlight remains on Salah’s commitment to both club and country, highlighting the challenges and complexities of managing player fitness during international competitions.