Mohamed Salah’s future at Liverpool has been up in the air since his outburst after Leeds United late last year.
Arne Slot dropped Salah from the squad that took on Inter Milan following his outburst.
However, the 33-year-old made his return off the bench and provided an insight against Brighton and Hove Albion in December.
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But there is still talk about Salah leaving Liverpool in 2026 and at present, uncertainty is lingering over the Egyptian, who is still away with his country competing at the AFCON.
When he returns, though, his stance on a potential departure could have an impact on one of his teammates.
Mohamed Salah decision could decide Federico Chiesa future
Liverpool fans want Federico Chiesa to play more, but it has become clear Arne Slot doesn’t see the winger as a regular starter.
The Italian was included in the eleven who just about beat Wolves, but despite Liverpool lacking attacking options, he was dropped the following gameweek for a right-back.
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Now, with the winter transfer window open, speculation over Chiesa’s future has begun to mount.
Italian outlet Gazzetta says that Juventus have given the green light to bring their former player back to Turin.
However, at Liverpool, the light is ‘orange’, with it added that the Reds are willing to sanction a sale, but they are waiting on confirmation that Salah, when he is back from AFCON, says he is staying at Anfield for the remainder of 2025/26.
Crucially, a loan move for Chiesa, who was called ‘unstoppable’ during his time with Juve, and a cut-price exit are both thought to be off the cards.
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When does AFCON 2026 end?
So, with Liverpool seemingly open to the Italian leaving, all eyes will now be on Salah when he eventually returns.
The Liverpool winger has been in top form for Egypt over the last month, already scoring three goals in three matches.
He has helped his country make it out of the group stages and most recently scored in a Round of 16 tie.
Egypt are now due to face Ivory Coast in the quarter-finals of the competition on Saturday, January 10.
Should they make it all the way to the final, Salah will not return to Liverpool until after the showpiece on January 18.
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