Liverpool supporters celebrated when Mohamed Salah extended his contract for an additional two years in April; however, this excitement has been somewhat dampened following the release of the Premier League fixtures, which revealed a significant match against Arsenal coinciding with his commitment to the Africa Cup of Nations with Egypt.
Even after reaching his 30s, Salah demonstrated his exceptional talent by delivering one of the most outstanding Premier League seasons in 2024–25.
His impressive tally of 47 goals and assists across 38 league matches, in which he participated in every game, is particularly noteworthy considering that his performance appeared to decline during the latter part of the previous season. Nevertheless, Salah has found new vigor under the guidance of Arne Slot.
Liverpool is actively working to reshape its squad for long-term success. With Trent Alexander-Arnold departing, interest in Andrew Robertson growing, and Darwin Núñez deemed unnecessary, the club is making significant changes. Jeremie Frimpong has joined the team, Florian Wirtz is on the way, and Milos Kerkez is also set to arrive.
Additionally, there is increased competition for the goalkeeper position due to the postponed arrival of Giorgi Mamardashvili.
However, Salah remains crucial to the team’s success.
This is why the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, poses a slight worry for Liverpool.
The seven-time champions, Egypt, have qualified for the 27th edition of the tournament and are aiming for their first African victory since 2010.
Salah, who made his debut in 2011, has yet to win the title, having been a runner-up twice, in 2017 and 2021.
International success remains the only accolade missing from his career.
However, due to the scheduling of the Africa Cup of Nations during the club season, he will be absent from several Liverpool matches. Should Egypt reach the final, he would miss a total of six games.
Even if the Pharaohs are expected to exit at the group stage—where they are anticipated to advance from a group that includes South Africa, Angola, and Zimbabwe—Salah would still miss three matches for Liverpool.
Egypt’s AFCON campaign commences on December 22 against Zimbabwe, with all group matches taking place in Agadir, Morocco.
Nevertheless, Salah must join the national squad prior to Liverpool’s Premier League match against Tottenham Hotspur (away) on December 20.
Following that, Liverpool is set to compete against Wolverhampton Wanderers and Leeds United in the remaining fixtures of December.
If Egypt does not progress beyond the group stage, Salah could return to Liverpool promptly.
Conversely, if they advance to the knockout rounds, Salah may miss additional Premier League matches against Fulham, Arsenal—a potentially significant encounter at the Emirates Stadium—and Burnley.
Furthermore, the FA Cup third round is scheduled for January 10. Should Egypt reach the AFCON final, Salah would likely be unavailable for Liverpool’s matchday seven fixture in the Champions League, which is planned for two or three days after the final at Rabat’s Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.