Mohamed Salah a doubt for Liverpool’s Premier League match with Brighton after asking to be substituted during the 4-0 win over Atalanta in the Champions League
The Egyptian forward responded strongly to a first-half penalty miss, setting up two goals and scoring once himself as Liverpool booked their place in the Champions League quarter-finals. However, with around 20 minutes remaining, Salah signalled to the bench and was replaced by Cody Gakpo.
Speaking after the match, manager Arne Slot admitted there was some uncertainty over Salah’s condition.
“He was asking for a substitution – not because he thought he had scored enough, but he felt something,” Slot said. “So let’s see where he is for the weekend and afterwards.”
The timing could not be worse for Liverpool, who face Brighton away in the Premier League on Saturday at the American Express Stadium, less than three days after their European fixture. Salah’s fitness will now be closely monitored ahead of that trip.
Despite the concern, Salah still made history on the night. His goal took him to 50 in the Champions League, making him the first African player to reach that milestone.
Slot praised his forward’s response after the penalty miss. “It says a lot about him,” he said. “After missing just before half-time, he came out in the second half, assisted the first goal and then scored a trademark finish.
“He’s done that many times for this club – cutting inside and finding the top corner. That shows his mental strength, and also the character of the team.”
Liverpool are already dealing with several absentees ahead of the Brighton clash, including Alexander Isak, Wataru Endo, Conor Bradley and Giovanni Leoni.
Isak has returned to light training but is not expected back until later this month, adding further pressure on Slot as he prepares for a quick turnaround and a demanding league fixture.
