Mohamed Salah will reportedly not join the Egypt squad for the upcoming international break in November.
According to Egyptian outlet Al-Shorouk, Egypt’s manager, Hossam Hassan, has decided to rest the Liverpool star for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Cape Verde and Botswana.
This decision was influenced by the fact that Egypt’s match against Cape Verde will take place on an artificial pitch, which raises concerns about the increased risk of injury.
While Egypt’s match against Botswana will be played on a grass pitch in Cairo, it was deemed unusual for Salah to be called up solely for a single game, especially given that Egypt have already secured qualification for the final Africa Cup of Nations tournament.
The tournament will be held between December 2024 and January 2025, after Egypt won all four of their qualifying matches so far, with Salah scoring two goals in three appearances.
Salah was also excused from Egypt’s October match against Mauritania for similar reasons.
The game was held on an artificial pitch, and there were concerns about the potential for rough treatment from opposing players.
The decision to rest Salah for the upcoming break is likely to be welcomed by Liverpool manager Arne Slot and Reds fans alike.
The 32-year-old’s recovery will be crucial as Liverpool faces a packed schedule.
Between November 24 and the end of the calendar year, the club will play 11 matches across the Premier League, Champions League, and Carabao Cup.
Salah has been in excellent form this season, currently tied as Liverpool’s top scorer with nine goals – equal to Luis Díaz, who recently netted a Champions League hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen.
Salah has continued to shine under new Reds boss Arne Slot, and fans will be relieved to see him get some rest ahead of a busy period.
However, while Salah’s brief break will bring comfort to fans, many will be hoping for more clarity on his long-term future at the club.
The former Chelsea forward is now in the final eight months of his contract at Anfield and has not publicly stated whether he plans to extend his stay or leave on a free transfer next summer.
If Salah does not sign an extension by January 1, he will be free to negotiate with foreign clubs.
The same applies to Liverpool teammates Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold, who are also set to become free agents in July 2025.
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