Liverpool have confirmed that Mohamed Salah is expected to make his comeback before the campaign draws to a close, after being diagnosed with a "minor" muscle issue. The 33‑year‑old Egyptian forward limped off during Liverpool's 3-1 triumph over Crystal Palace on Saturday, clutching his leg and being substituted just shy of the 60‑minute mark. He lingered on the pitch for a moment to salute the Anfield faithful, his face showing clear emotion as he waved goodbye. Last month the Egypt international revealed that he had reached a mutual agreement with the club to end his nine‑year spell on Merseyside.
The final league fixture against Brentford at Anfield was being touted as a fitting occasion for him to bow out. While Liverpool have not supplied a precise timetable for his return, a note on the club's official site hinted that supporters will see the No.11 back in red before the season concludes.
The statement read: "Liverpool FC can confirm Mohamed Salah is expected to be available to play again before the end of this season. The No 11 was substituted during the second half of last Saturday's Premier League win over Crystal Palace at Anfield. The issue that caused his withdrawal has now been confirmed as a minor muscle injury.
It is, however, anticipated Salah will return to action ahead of 2025‑26's conclusion and his departure from the Reds this summer." The news arrives as a timely boost for the Egyptian national side, which is gearing up for the World Cup qualifiers. Salah had previously endured an injury scare ahead of Egypt's last World Cup appearance in 2018, but he managed to feature, albeit not at full capacity, in that tournament. Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk weighed in, insisting that Salah will receive the proper send‑off regardless of how many minutes he ultimately adds to his Liverpool tally. "I know he is doing everything in his power to be back on the pitch as soon as possible," Van Dijk said.
"If you get injured at this stage of the season, especially in the situation he is in, there are only two more home games left for him. It's a combination of feelings that go through your mind." Van Dijk continued, "Hopefully he won't be long. Maybe he's back next week, maybe not.
I have no idea. He will get the send‑off regardless. I don't think that is the thing at this point; we shouldn't think too far ahead.
Knowing Mo, he is a quick healer and with the right people around him, let's see." Salah's injury was classified as minor, meaning that with proper treatment and rehabilitation he could be back within weeks rather than months. Liverpool's medical staff have a strong track record of managing muscular strains, often employing a blend of physiotherapy, targeted strength work, and controlled training sessions to accelerate recovery while minimizing the risk of re‑injury. The club's emphasis on a gradual re‑introduction to full training is designed to ensure that Salah returns at peak fitness for the decisive fixtures that remain. The remaining schedule includes several crucial matches: an away clash at Manchester United on May 3, a home game against Chelsea on May 9, another away fixture at Aston Villa on May 17, and finally the home showdown with Brentford on May 24.
These fixtures will determine Liverpool's final league standing and could also influence European qualification spots. Having Salah back, even for a brief cameo, would provide a significant morale lift and add a potent attacking option for manager Jürgen Klopp. Beyond the club context, Salah's return holds symbolic importance for Egyptian fans. His leadership and performances have been central to Egypt's recent resurgence on the international stage.
A fit Salah ahead of the World Cup qualifiers could bolster the team's chances of securing a place in the 2026 tournament, a goal that the nation has pursued fervently since their 2018 appearance. In summary, while the exact date of Salah's return remains unannounced, Liverpool's official communication makes it clear that the club expects the Egyptian star to don the red shirt again before the season's end. The minor nature of his muscle injury suggests a relatively swift recovery, and both teammates and supporters are hopeful that he will be able to contribute, even if only in the final home games, before his long‑awaited departure from Anfield.