Liverpool Supports Salah’s Decision to Return for Treatment Amid Egypt Criticism
Feb
Liverpool’s assistant manager, Pepijn Lijnders, has defended Mohamed Salah’s commitment to Egypt following criticism over his exit from the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon). Salah is set to return to Liverpool for treatment on a torn hamstring, a decision made collaboratively between Egypt and Liverpool’s medical teams. Lijnders emphasized that the move aims to provide Salah with the best chance of participating in the Afcon final on 11 February if Egypt advances.
Despite the collaborative decision, Salah, Egypt’s captain, has faced widespread criticism in his home country for leaving the squad. Ahmed Hassan, Egypt’s most-capped player, accused Salah of planning his departure and suggested he should have remained with the team, even if injured.
Lijnders responded to the criticism, stating, “You should never doubt the commitment of Mo Salah.” He emphasized Salah’s dedication to his professional football career and explained that the decision to bring him back to Liverpool was to enhance his chances of recovery. Lijnders highlighted the cooperation between Egypt’s and Liverpool’s medical teams, showcasing an exemplary collaboration between international and club football.
Responding to the suggestion that Salah could have been treated by Liverpool’s medical staff at Egypt’s training camp, Lijnders clarified that the decision was based on a detailed scan revealing a significant tear in Salah’s hamstring. Liverpool expects a three to four-week recovery period, and Lijnders expressed confidence in Salah’s approach to rehabilitation.
Liverpool will have Andy Robertson available for the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Fulham, while Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dominik Szoboszlai are expected to return for the FA Cup fourth-round tie against Norwich. Despite Salah’s absence, Liverpool has maintained a winning run, showcasing their attacking versatility this season.
Lijnders emphasized Liverpool’s unpredictability in attack and praised the squad’s depth, highlighting the ease with which they can adapt their offensive strategies in the absence of key players.
