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• Mohamed Salah sparked outrage in Egypt after claiming Liverpool “threw him under the bus” in a December 6, 2025, interview following a 3-3 draw with Leeds United.
• The 33-year-old was benched for three consecutive games and omitted from the squad for a Champions League match against Inter Milan.
• Egyptians overwhelmingly support Salah, viewing the situation as humiliation to their “Egyptian King” and “Fourth Pyramid.”
• Salah returned as a substitute in Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Brighton on December 13, receiving strong fan backing at Anfield.
• He has now joined Egypt’s squad for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 in Morocco, starting December 21.

Mohamed Salah’s recent fallout with Liverpool has ignited passionate support across Egypt, where the forward is revered as a national hero. His explosive comments accusing the club of scapegoating him resonated deeply in his homeland, highlighting his immense cultural significance. As Salah prepares to lead Egypt at AFCON 2025, the controversy underscores the unwavering loyalty he commands from fans back home.

Salah’s interview came after being sidelined amid Liverpool’s challenging season, despite his stellar contributions in helping secure the Premier League title the previous year. His new two-year contract, signed in April 2025 and running until 2027, now faces scrutiny as tensions with manager Arne Slot surfaced publicly.

National Outrage and Unconditional Support

In Cairo, Salah’s words triggered widespread solidarity. Fans and commentators expressed shock and anger, perceiving the benching as disrespectful to a player who transformed Liverpool’s global appeal in Egypt. Many Egyptians became Reds supporters solely because of Salah, and his status as a role model—humble, philanthropic, and triumphant—amplifies the emotional response.

Former colleagues and officials emphasize Salah’s professionalism, noting his confidence rather than arrogance. Teammates in the national setup have publicly backed him, viewing the club issue as secondary to Egypt’s ambitions.

Path to Reconciliation and AFCON Focus

Salah’s brief return against Brighton showed enduring affection from Liverpool supporters, who chanted his name. Clear-the-air talks with Slot paved the way, though questions linger about his long-term role. Liverpool maintain commitment to his contract, with no January sale planned despite Saudi interest.

Now with the Pharaohs, Salah shifts focus to AFCON glory. Egypt, record seven-time champions but title-less since 2010, see him as key to success. Drawn in Group B alongside South Africa, Angola, and Zimbabwe, the team aims to capitalize on Salah’s leadership.

The Mohamed Salah Liverpool controversy has captivated Egypt, revealing the profound bond between the nation and its footballing icon. Salah’s December 6 outburst—claiming he was “thrown under the bus” after repeated benchings—struck a chord in a country where he symbolizes pride and achievement.

Cairo’s bustling streets and cafes buzzed with disbelief as news spread. Salah’s journey from enduring long commutes for youth training to global stardom inspires millions. Dubbed the “Egyptian King” and “Fourth Pyramid,” he represents aspiration in a nation of over 100 million. His 2018 presidential write-in votes and widespread billboards underscore his unofficial leadership role.

Reactions poured in swiftly. Former Egypt assistant coach Diaa El-Sayed described the interview as a “revolution,” with near-unanimous backing for Salah. Locals lamented the perceived slight, some even cheering Inter Milan during his squad omission. Journalists framed it as emotional humiliation for a family member, acknowledging elite players’ mindset without judgment.

National team dynamics remain positive. Coach Hossam Hassan, Egypt’s record goalscorer, held discussions to ensure Salah’s peak form. Teammates praise his professionalism, sharing supportive posts and affirming his model status.

Salah’s Liverpool tenure boasts extraordinary success: multiple titles, over 250 goals, and third on the club’s all-time scoring list. His April 2025 extension followed intense negotiations, rewarding his pivotal role in the prior title win. Yet, this season’s form dip and tactical shifts led to benchings, culminating in his frustration.

Pundits in Britain critiqued the public airing, but Egyptians prioritize loyalty. Many credit Salah for popularizing Liverpool locally, fostering a fanbase tied to his presence.

As AFCON 2025 approaches in Morocco (December 21, 2025–January 18, 2026), Salah’s motivation surges. Egypt seeks an eighth title, ending a 15-year drought. Finals losses in 2017 and 2021 fuel his drive, especially with a World Cup berth secured (group with Belgium, Iran, New Zealand).

Group B fixtures test the Pharaohs:

Salah’s ambitions extend beyond club triumphs. A new advert features his daughters questioning ongoing training post-Liverpool successes; his reply emphasizes Egypt. Honoring idol Mohamed Aboutrika (removed from social handle post-2017 listing, cleared 2024), Salah chases elusive continental glory.

Liverpool’s stance: committed to his contract until 2027, viewing exclusions as temporary. His Brighton substitute appearance reaffirmed fan adoration, suggesting reconciliation potential.

Saudi clubs monitor developments, but Salah prioritizes high-level competition. Family settled in England, he eyes legacy completion—potentially including AFCON triumph.

In Egypt, support endures unconditionally. Fans believe added motivation will elevate Salah, propelling the team forward. Not favorites, but with their captain inspired, Egypt dares to dream.

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