Blow for Liverpool as they could be without Mohamed Salah for longer than expected

Liverpool could be without Mohamed Salah for longer than expected in a big blow to the Merseyside giants.

According to the Daily Mirror , the 33-year-old could miss the Reds’ home fixture with Brighton & Hove Albion due to his engagements with Egypt .

The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will start on 21 December, but the Pharaohs want Salah for a mid-December friendly before the beginning of the tournament.

This would see him miss Liverpool’s home game with Brighton on December 13.

With AFCON running from December 21 to January 18, Arne Slot’s side could be without Salah for an extended period.

If Egypt fail to make it beyond the group stage, the experienced forward could be available for the Reds’ home meeting with Leeds United on New Year’s Day.

Although their trip to Fulham three days later is thought to be a more realistic return date for the player.

Salah has been struggling for form this season, scoring five goals in 15 appearances across all competitions.

But he still remains a key figure for Liverpool, who have relied on his goals over the years.

Salah was the top goalscorer last season when Slot’s side lifted the Premier League title.

Liverpool were expected to be in contention for the league title in 2025-26, having spent a record £445 million on new signings in the summer.

But their performances have been disappointing, with the team losing five of their 11 matches to be 11th in the table.

Stats from Transfermarkt