Salah Rift Deepens, but Austin Says Liverpool Still Need Their Star

Mohamed Salah’s fallout with Liverpool continues to generate tension, but former Burnley striker Charlie Austin believes the Egyptian forward should remain an important part of the team after the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Salah sparked controversy after Liverpool’s 3–3 draw with Leeds United, openly expressing frustration over being benched for three straight games. He hinted that promises made in the summer were not kept and suggested his relationship with manager Arne Slot had broken down. He even said the club had “thrown him under the bus”… comments that triggered strong reactions and raised doubts about his future.

Reports cited by Soccernet.ng indicate Liverpool may leave him out of upcoming fixtures to ease tensions as he prepares to join Egypt for AFCON, and several outlets claim he might not play again before the tournament.

Speaking on Sky Sports News, Austin said the situation “has come too soon” and would have been easier to handle later in the season, adding that summer would have been the natural time for decisions. Still, he insisted Salah should return to the team after AFCON, saying: “I don't see why he doesn't play for Liverpool again… he's Liverpool's best player.”