Mohamed Salah may not have been in Milan on Tuesday night, but his shadow still loomed large over the San Siro as Liverpool battled their way to a dramatic 1–0 victory over Inter Milan in the Champions League.
A late Dominik Szoboszlai penalty, awarded after Florian Wirtz was tugged inside the box, proved decisive in a tense encounter that helped restore some calm following a turbulent few days for the club. The result offered a much-needed lift after Salah’s explosive outburst in the aftermath of Saturday’s 3–3 draw with Leeds United, comments that left his future at Anfield shrouded in uncertainty.
While Salah stayed behind on Merseyside, broadcasters Amazon Prime Video were eager to get reactions from Liverpool’s leadership group. Both Virgil van Dijk and Andy Robertson addressed the situation, while head coach Arne Slot sought to keep the spotlight firmly on those who delivered a hard-fought win in Italy.
Van Dijk: “We Focus on the Club”
Speaking after the match, captain Van Dijk acknowledged the tension surrounding Salah but stressed that the team’s focus remains collective.
“Obviously it’s a difficult situation,” he said. “Between Mo and the club things are going on and that means he isn’t here today. That’s the reality. But nothing changes for our motivation — we play for the club, always.
“An apology? I don’t think I’m the one who should speak about that. Mo aired his feelings, and that’s something the club and he have to handle. He trained, he’s been professional, and as players we block out the outside noise.”
The Dutch defender also reminded reporters that Salah is due to join Egypt for international duty soon, adding: “We’ve shared so much together — highs and lows. Those conversations stay private, as they should.”
Robertson: “One of the Greats”
Vice-captain Andy Robertson echoed his skipper’s tone, calling Salah “one of the greatest players ever to play for the club.” He added: “Whatever happens will be dealt with internally. We’re together as a group — you could see that spirit tonight.”
Slot: “Tonight Belongs to the Players Here”
Manager Arne Slot, meanwhile, deftly sidestepped further controversy when questioned by pundit Clarence Seedorf. “Tonight should be about the players who fought for this win,” he said. “There will be plenty of time on Friday to talk about Mo, but this evening belongs to those who were on the pitch.”
Later in his press conference, Slot clarified that Seedorf’s suggestion — that Salah and the coach should “speak first” — was purely the pundit’s opinion. “I didn’t say who should take the first step,” he explained. “What matters tonight is the team that delivered this performance. They deserve every bit of credit.”
Liverpool’s victory may not have silenced the noise entirely, but it at least provided a reminder of the resilience that still defines the club — even amid off-field drama.
