Former Liverpool forward Daniel Sturridge has lifted the lid on a private conversation he had with Mohamed Salah regarding the winger’s uncertain future at Anfield.

Salah, who has recently clashed with manager Arne Slot over a string of benchings, was left out once again during Liverpool’s victory over Inter Milan on Tuesday — a decision that fueled further speculation about a possible exit. Reports suggest the Egyptian felt disrespected by the repeated omissions.

Speaking on Amazon Prime, Sturridge revealed that Salah confided in him about where his heart truly lies.

“Mo has told me, ‘I love this football club. I don’t want to leave this club. This is where I want to be,’” Sturridge shared, as reported by SportBible.

The former striker added that another frank conversation between Salah and Slot may be necessary to ease tensions and realign expectations.

“I don’t know how he is going to feel, but I think there needs to be another conversation between the manager and Mohamed Salah.”

Salah is now set to join Egypt ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, leaving Liverpool fans anxious about what the future holds when he returns.

Opinion: Liverpool Cannot Afford Unnecessary Fractures

This situation is a reminder of a simple truth: Liverpool without Salah is not quite the same Liverpool. When a club legend expresses love for the badge and desire to stay, it should be a moment of reassurance — not confusion.

Salah’s words to Sturridge show loyalty, humility, and a genuine emotional connection to Anfield. But loyalty has limits when a player feels undervalued. Slot’s decision to bench him repeatedly may be tactical, disciplinary, or purely transitional, but the handling matters just as much as the decision itself.

In a dressing room already navigating change, the last thing Liverpool need is a silent cold war between their biggest star and their new manager.

If both men can sit down, clear the air, and restore mutual respect, Liverpool stand to benefit the most. Salah still offers goals, leadership, and global influence. Slot offers a fresh vision. Together, they could write a new chapter — but only if communication replaces tension.

AFCON will take Salah away for a while, but perhaps that break will give both sides the breathing space needed. What happens after that may define Liverpool’s season.