Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool face Brighton at Anfield today in a crucial Premier League clash. The Reds are looking to stabilize after a season of ups and downs. Tensions have been high, especially following the dramatic 3-3 draw with Leeds, which saw Mohamed Salah visibly frustrated. His relationship with manager Arne Slot came under the spotlight, raising questions about team dynamics and selection.
Salah was left out of Liverpool’s Champions League win over Inter Milan midweek. After the match at Elland Road, he spoke to reporters and said he felt he was being made a scapegoat for the Reds’ poor form this season. “I feel I’ve been thrown under the bus,” Salah explained, reflecting the strain in his relationship with Slot. The forward has now returned to the squad following fresh discussions with the manager.
While Slot did not confirm Salah’s involvement at his pre-match press conference, it is understood that positive talks have paved the way for him to be available today. Salah may also get a chance to bid the Anfield fans at least a temporary farewell before heading off to Morocco for the Africa Cup of Nations, as he has been named in the squad to face Brighton, though his long-term future remains uncertain.
As for other selection matters, Slot faces decisions across the pitch. Alexander Isak, who picked up a knock in the first half against Inter Milan, starts, though he managed 68 minutes in Italy. Florian Wirtz keeps a starting spot after winning a decisive penalty off the bench. At left-back, Milos Kerkez replaces Andy Robertson for a more attacking setup. Jeremie Frimpong is nearing a return from a hamstring injury, but Joe Gomez keeps his place, while Conor Bradley serves a suspension.
Arne Slot has now confirmed his biggest decision of the day. Mohamed Salah starts ON THE BENCH.
Alexander Isak also drops out of the starting eleven.
The selected eleven to start against Brighton are: Alisson, Gomez, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez, Gravenberch, Szoboszlai, Mac Allister, Wirtz, Jones, Ekitike.
Cody Gakpo, Wataru Endo, and Giovanni Leoni are sidelined. Frimpong is doubtful. Bradley is suspended.
Kick-off is at 3pm GMT on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Anfield. Liverpool will hope this lineup secures three points and allows Salah a fitting send-off before AFCON.
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