The fallout from Mohamed Salah’s explosive post-match comments hung heavy in the air, yet within the Liverpool training ground, captain Virgil van Dijk insisted a remarkable calm prevailed. He described the atmosphere as “perfectly normal,” a stark contrast to the swirling speculation about the Egyptian star’s future.
Salah’s frustration boiled over after being left on the bench during a 3-3 draw, unleashing a candid assessment of his situation. He spoke of feeling “thrown under the bus,” a scapegoat for the team’s struggles, and even hinted at a potential January departure – a stunning revelation from a club legend.
The immediate consequence was Salah’s exclusion from the squad traveling to face Inter Milan in a crucial Champions League clash. Despite this, Van Dijk emphasized that training sessions leading up to the game were unaffected. The team, he stated, was focused solely on the challenges ahead, shielding itself from the “outside world” and its amplified narrative.
Van Dijk acknowledged Salah’s feelings were raw after the match, but firmly drew a line at delving into the specifics. When pressed about conversations with his teammate, he offered a resolute “Of course I spoke to him. No, of course not. It’s none of anyone’s business.” A clear signal that certain matters remained private, within the confines of the team.
The captain’s loyalty to Salah was undeniable. He unequivocally stated his desire for the forward to remain at Anfield, recognizing the symbiotic relationship they’ve forged over years of shared success. “He’s been a big part of my success… I’m a big part of his success,” Van Dijk revealed, highlighting their intertwined contributions to the club.
However, Van Dijk tempered his hope with realism. Salah’s immediate future was uncertain, with the player heading to the Africa Cup of Nations. The decision ultimately rested with the club and Salah himself, a situation beyond the captain’s control. He could only express his friendship and willingness to see what unfolds.
The situation was further complicated by a stretched squad in Milan, with other key players unavailable. Van Dijk dismissed any notion of blame, stating firmly that there was “no point in saying if someone let someone down.” Salah’s absence from the trip was simply a consequence of his outspokenness, a line drawn in the sand.
Andy Robertson, another long-time teammate, echoed Van Dijk’s sentiments. He described the situation as “tough,” acknowledging Salah’s status as one of the club’s greatest players. While recognizing the gravity of the situation, Robertson emphasized the internal unity within the squad, stating, “Internally, we’re all together.”
Ultimately, the future remains unclear. The club now faces a delicate balancing act – navigating a player’s discontent while maintaining team cohesion. For now, Liverpool focuses on the present, hoping for a positive resolution and the continued brilliance of one of its most iconic stars.
