In a surprising move, Liverpool’s head coach Arne Slot has opted to bench star forward Mohamed Salah during their recent match against West Ham. This decision marks the first instance of Salah being sidelined in the Premier League under Slot’s management. The game took place on November 30, 2025, amid a troubling stretch for Liverpool, who has suffered six losses in their last seven league matches.
Context of Salah’s Benchings
Before this match, Mohamed Salah had struggled with his performance, netting only four goals this season. Slot’s decision reflects a need to shake things up as Liverpool attempts to regain their footing in the Premier League standings. The club seeks to climb back into the top half of the table.
Changes in the Lineup
Alongside Salah’s absence, coach Arne Slot reintroduced midfielder Florian Wirtz to the lineup after his recovery from an injury that kept him out for two games. This adjustment indicates Slot’s willingness to experiment with different formations and player combinations.
Slot’s Remarks on Player Selection
Before the match, Slot addressed concerns regarding Salah’s absence from the starting eleven. “We have more players on the bench than just Mo, but I understand why you ask the question,” he stated. He emphasized that the team is facing a demanding schedule of four games in just ten days.
Key Points from the Match
- Match Date: November 30, 2025
- Opponent: West Ham
- Goals this season for Salah: 4
- Recent league form for Liverpool: 1 win in 7 matches
- Return of Florian Wirtz after injury
Ultimately, Slot’s decision reflects his broader strategy to utilize his squad effectively. With several key players available, he emphasized the importance of balancing performance and fitness, considering that not only Salah but other prominent players have also been left out of key matches.
