After beating Southampton, the absence that Arne Slot may have this season for Liverpool

Mohamed Salah's future at Liverpool remains one of the hottest topics in world football. The Egyptian striker, a key player in the Anfield team, could be absent from English football during the 2025 Christmas period.

The reason? The African Cup of Nations, which will be held in Morocco between December 2025 and January 2026. The competition, traditionally played in the summer, has again been scheduled for the winter, which coincides with the busiest part of the European season.

Liverpool's impact

Salah's absence would be a serious blow for Liverpool, who have already missed the Egyptian in other editions of the African Cup. His ability to decide games and his importance to the Reds' attack are undeniable.

Salah's contract with Liverpool runs until June 2025, but negotiations for a renewal are already underway. Coach Arne Slot, who arrived at the club at the beginning of the season, has shown great interest in keeping the striker in the squad.

What's at stake?

• Salah's future: Salah's decision on whether or not to renew with Liverpool could directly influence his participation in the 2025 African Cup.
• Liverpool Planning: Liverpool's recruitment team will need to prepare for the possibility of losing Salah for a period.
• Football calendar: The holding of the African Cup of Nations in winter continues to generate debates about the need to reformulate the international football calendar.

What now, Liverpool?

Liverpool will have to handle this situation with caution. Salah's renewal is a priority, but the club also needs to have a plan B if the Egyptian decides to leave Anfield. Furthermore, the issue of the international calendar is a problem that affects all major European clubs.