Jurgen Klopp revealed on Sunday that Mohamed Salah will be heading back to the UK for treatment, assuring his potential return to the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) if he recovers and Egypt remains in the competition.
However, Salah’s agent, Ramy Abbas, suggested on Monday that the injury is more severe than anticipated, estimating a 21-28 day recovery period and casting doubt on Salah’s participation in the remaining AFCON matches.
Salah’s best chance of joining the AFCON lies in a full recovery in the UK before rejoining the team when fit.
The AFCON schedule includes group stage matches from January 13-24, round of sixteen from January 27-30, quarterfinals on February 2-3, semi-finals on February 7, third-place playoffs on March 10, and the final on February 11.
With Salah’s potential absence, he might miss Liverpool’s upcoming fixtures, including a Carabao Cup match against Fulham on January 24, an FA Cup fourth-round game on January 27 against Chelsea, and Premier League clashes with Arsenal (A) on February 4, Burnley (H) on February 10, Brentford (A) on February 17, and Luton Town (H) on February 24.
Klopp initially announced Salah’s return for medical attention after Liverpool’s 4-0 win against Bournemouth.
Klopp indicated that the plan is for Salah to complete his rehabilitation with the club, although it’s not a firm decision yet. Klopp mentioned Salah’s ongoing contact with the team doctor and expressed confidence in his return.
When asked about Salah’s potential AFCON participation, Klopp mentioned the possibility if Egypt reaches the final and Salah is fit.
However, he highlighted his lack of medical expertise. Meanwhile, Ivory Coast faces its own challenges, emphasizing the importance of players’ well-being without familial support in the host nation.
