Arne Slot, manager of Liverpool FC, has said that Mohamed Salah deserves a fitting farewell at season's end, calling the Egyptian forward worthy of a "big send-off" after his nine-year contribution to the club. The comments come as scans confirmed Salah's recent injury sustained in the 3-1 win over Crystal Palace is only minor, raising hopes he will return before the campaign concludes.

Injury assessment and recovery timeline

Salah was forced off during the Crystal Palace match with what initially appeared to be a hamstring concern, sparking fears he might miss the remainder of the season. However, Slot provided an encouraging update on the forward's fitness prospects. "As we know from Mo, he is always working incredibly hard when he is fit, but also when he is injured, to be back as soon as possible," Slot said. "Usually, he is fit sooner than other players when he has a minor injury, so we expect him back for the final part of the season, but not for Sunday."

Relief for Liverpool and the player

The positive diagnosis has provided a significant boost to Liverpool's plans for the run-in. Slot acknowledged the magnitude of the news, stating: "In all ways, it is a big relief that his injury is minor, that he can play for us and at the World Cup. If there is any time a player deserves to have a big send-off, it is definitely him."

Salah's announcement and legacy

Salah announced on 25 March that he will depart Liverpool at the end of the 2025-26 season, concluding a remarkable nine-year tenure with the club. In a video message to supporters, the 32-year-old stated: "Unfortunately, the day has come. This is the first part of my farewell. I will be leaving Liverpool at the end of the season. I wanted to start by saying I never imagined how deeply this club, this city, these people, would become part of my life."

He continued: "Liverpool is not just a football club. It is a passion, a history, a spirit that I can't explain in words to anyone not part of this club. We celebrated victory. We won the most important trophies, and we fought together through the hardest time in our lives."

Record and achievements

Salah is Liverpool's all-time leading goalscorer in the Premier League and has been instrumental in the club's trophy haul, including two Premier League titles, the UEFA Champions League, and the FIFA Club World Cup. His departure will mark the end of one of the most prolific eras in the club's modern history. Slot and the club are now focused on ensuring Salah has the platform to finish his Liverpool journey on a high note, with the forward expected to play a central role in the final weeks of the season.