Liverpool could be without Mohamed Salah for longer than initially expected as the Egyptian star prepares to captain his national team at the 2025-26 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, starting December 21.
Recent reports suggest Egypt want Salah to participate in a pre-tournament friendly against Nigeria a week before the competition kicks off. This likely rules him out of Liverpool’s home game against Brighton on December 13, as well as key fixtures during the festive period.
The tournament runs until January 18, which means Salah could miss up to seven matches, depending on how far Egypt progress. If the Pharaohs exit in the group stage, Salah might return for the New Year’s Day clash with Leeds, or more realistically, for the trip to Fulham three days later.
Discussions between Liverpool and the Egyptian Football Association remain positive. Salah was also rested for Egypt’s recent friendly against Cape Verde to manage his fitness ahead of the tournament
