Arne Slot Explains Why Mohamed Salah Was Benched Against West Ham
- Arne Slot has explained why Mohamed Salah was an unused substitute during the win over West Ham
- Liverpool snapped their losing streak with a 2-0 victory over West Ham at the London Olympic Stadium
- The result gives Slot a breathing space amid reports he would have been sacked if they had lost the match
CHECK OUT: How to Start Earning with Copywriting in Just 7 Days – Even if You’re a Complete Beginner
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has explained why Mohamed Salah was an unused substitute during the 2-0 win over West Ham at the London Olympic Stadium.
The Premier League champions returned to winning ways with a victory at the capital thanks to brilliant goals from Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo.
Source: Getty Images
The result eased the pressure on manager Arne Slot, who reportedly faced the possibility of being relieved of his duties if the Reds had lost the match.
However, Slot left another talking point in the match after Mohamed Salah played no part in the match, which snapped their losing streak.
Slot explains Salah’s bench role
Arne Slot has explained the decision to bench Salah in a crucial match that held the key to his continuity as Liverpool manager amid pressure on his position.
The Dutch manager opted for Dominik Szoboszlai in Salah’s right-wing position, giving the Hungarian full 90 minutes, while the Egyptian watched on.
“We have more players on the bench than just Mo, but I understand why you ask the question," he told Sky Sports, as quoted by Liverpool Echo.
“We’re playing four games in 10 days. I have many good players, so today I chose this line-up. Sometimes Isak has been on the bench, sometimes Wirtz, so I understand why it’s about the players on the bench, but it’s also about those who start.
“It’s not an easy decision, as I have many more than 11 good players; it’s not the first time I haven’t played Mo, just like I’ve decided not to play Isak, Wirtz and Ekitike.”
Source: Getty Images
Liverpool will have to get used to Salah not playing, with the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations coming up in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.
Salah will lead the Pharaohs of Egypt with the most successful team on the continent, with seven trophies, aiming to win their first title since 2008.
According to Sport Bible, the Egyptian FA has been pushing to have their players released on time ahead of a friendly against Nigeria on December 7.
However, this is unlikely to happen as FIFA’s approved date for the release of players for the tournament is December 8, which some clubs are keen to extend.
Egypt will open their AFCON campaign against Zimbabwe on December 22, before facing South Africa and Angola on the 26th and 29th.
Arne Slot reacted to sack rumours
Legit.ng reported that Arne Slot reacted to sack rumours after Liverpool’s embarrassing 4-1 loss to PSV Eindhoven in the UEFA Champions League.
The manager debunked the claims that his players have turned against him, but admits that their performance this season is below their standards.
Don't miss out! Join Legit.ng's Sports News channel on WhatsApp now!
Source: Legit.ng
