Slot defends Salah: ‘He is human’

Slot Keeps Faith in Salah Amid Stamford Bridge Frustration

Arne Slot came to the defence of Mohamed Salah after the forward endured a frustrating evening in Liverpool’s 2–1 defeat to Chelsea. The Egyptian missed a series of chances that might have changed the outcome, but his manager was quick to emphasise both his value and humanity.

Speaking after the final whistle, Slot admitted his side “definitely deserved at least a draw”, reflecting on a match that slipped away late on thanks to Estevao’s decisive strike. Yet much of the post-match discussion focused on Salah — Liverpool’s star forward who, despite his work rate and positioning, failed to convert a string of opportunities.

Mo Salah 

Missed Chances and Mounting Questions

For Salah, it was another night where his trademark composure deserted him. Early in the second half, a sharp flick from Florian Wirtz put him through on goal, only for the shot to drift wide of the near post. Two more efforts, both from his familiar cutting runs inside, flew off target as frustration grew among the travelling supporters.

The Egyptian’s current run has seen him go four matches without scoring in all competitions. That figure may not yet be cause for alarm, but given his consistency over recent seasons, it has drawn scrutiny. Salah has scored just three times in ten appearances this campaign — two in the Premier League — a modest return for a player accustomed to carrying Liverpool’s attacking burden.

Slot, however, struck a calm note. “What I like,” he explained, “is that he got many times in positions he would like to be in, and I would like him to be in. He has shown throughout his career that he can score goals. Today he had many opportunities to do what he has done so often — but he is a human being. It is not like every chance he gets is always a goal.”

Tactical Tweaks and Team Cohesion

The Liverpool manager was also asked whether Salah’s display had been affected by being rested during the midweek clash with Galatasaray. Slot admitted it was difficult to judge whether the missed chances stemmed from fatigue or rustiness. “Did he create so much today because he didn’t play during the week? Or did he miss those chances because he lacked sharpness from not playing? We will never know,” he said.

Beyond individual performances, Slot focused on collective issues. Liverpool’s early struggles in possession limited their forward movement, with Chelsea pressing effectively in the opening half. Adjustments in midfield, including the repositioning of Ryan Gravenberch after Ibrahima Konaté was withdrawn, allowed Liverpool to regain some control. The changes resulted in improved build-up play and more sustained attacking phases, though the finishing touch continued to elude them.

Slot Confident in Salah’s Response

Despite the disappointment, Slot remains unwavering in his faith. Salah, who scored 34 goals in all competitions last season, including 29 in the Premier League, has built a reputation on resilience as much as brilliance.

Slot’s message was clear — criticism will not shake the belief within the dressing room. “He is always in the right place,” said the Dutchman. “That’s what matters. If he keeps getting into those situations, the goals will follow.”

Liverpool’s defeat marked their third in succession across all competitions, a run that has narrowed their title defence hopes. Yet, Slot’s response reflected a manager determined to maintain perspective — one who understands that even elite performers, like Salah, can have nights when the margins turn cruel.

For now, Liverpool’s focus shifts to recovery and refinement. And for Salah, the task remains the same: keep moving, keep creating, and trust that the next chance will fall differently.