Mohamed Salah Missing as Slot’s Changes Backfire in Liverpool’s Shock FA Cup Exit to Plymouth

In one of the biggest surprises of the season, Liverpool was eliminated from the FA Cup after suffering a heartbreaking 1-0 loss to Plymouth Argyle in the fourth round.

In the 53rd minute, Ryan Hardie scored the game's lone goal from a penalty kick, giving the struggling Championship team a historic win over the Premier League leaders.

Mohamed Salah and other important players were rested by Liverpool manager Arne Slot, who instead relied on youthful and backup players. According to British media, Slot wanted to give his players a rest following their heated match against Tottenham in the Carabao Cup semi-final.

In Salah’s absence, the attacking trio of Federico Chiesa, Darwin Núñez, and Luis Díaz led the frontline but failed to break down Plymouth’s defense.

Despite missing the match, Mohamed Salah remains Liverpool’s key player this season, having scored 26 goals and provided 18 assists in 34 appearances across all competitions.