Mohamed Salah is projected to make his comeback for Liverpool before the campaign draws to a close, after the club confirmed that his recent setback was a "minor" muscle issue. The Egyptian forward, who is 33, collapsed clutching his leg during Liverpool's 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace on Saturday and was forced off just shy of the 60‑minute mark.
He lingered on the pitch for a moment to salute the Anfield supporters, his demeanor clearly emotional as he waved goodbye. Last month, Salah revealed that he had negotiated an exit from Liverpool, ending a nine‑year spell at the club. The final fixture of the season against Brentford at Anfield was being touted as the ideal stage for his farewell.
While the exact date of his return has not been disclosed, a notice on Liverpool's official website hinted that fans will likely see the Egyptian wearing the red shirt again before the season wraps up. "Liverpool FC can confirm Mohamed Salah is expected to be available to play again before the end of this season," the club statement read.
"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 timing of the news offers a boost to the Egyptian national side as they prepare for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. Salah had previously faced an injury scare ahead of Egypt's last World Cup appearance in 2018, but he managed to play through the tournament, albeit not at full capacity. Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk expressed confidence that Salah will receive the proper send‑off, even if his final appearance for the club arrives later than hoped.
"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 mix of emotions. 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.
Knowing Mo, he is a quick healer and with the right people around him, we will see." Salah's departure has been a major talking point throughout the summer transfer window, with speculation swirling about potential destinations. Yet, the club's medical team has assured supporters that his injury is not serious and that a return is feasible within the remaining fixtures. The statement also highlighted that the club will monitor his progress closely and will not rush his rehabilitation, aiming to ensure he is fully fit for any potential final appearance.
In the meantime, Liverpool's schedule remains packed. The team faces Manchester United away on May 3 at 3:30 p.m., followed by a home clash with Chelsea on May 9 at 12:30 p.m. Subsequent matches include an away game at Aston Villa on May 17 (3 p.m.) and the season‑ending home fixture against Brentford on May 24 (4 p.m.). These fixtures provide ample opportunity for Salah to make a cameo if his recovery proceeds as expected.
Beyond the immediate concerns, Salah's influence on Liverpool extends beyond goals and assists. His professionalism, work ethic, and leadership have shaped the club's culture over the past decade. Teammates frequently cite his dedication in training and his willingness to mentor younger players as key factors in maintaining Liverpool's competitive edge.
From a tactical standpoint, Salah's speed, dribbling ability, and clinical finishing have been integral to Jurgen Klopp's attacking philosophy. Even in a reduced role, his presence on the field forces opponents to allocate extra defensive resources, creating space for teammates such as Luis Diaz, Darwin Nunez, and Mohamed Elyounoussi. Should he return, even for a brief cameo, Liverpool could benefit from the extra spark he provides, especially in tightly contested matches where a single moment of brilliance can decide the outcome.
The broader football community has also weighed in on the news. Former players, pundits, and fans alike have praised Salah's resilience and expressed hope that he will be able to celebrate his Liverpool career with a proper farewell on home soil. Social media platforms are abuzz with tributes, highlighting memorable moments such as his record‑breaking goal tally, his decisive performances in Champions League finals, and his role in securing the 2019‑20 Premier League title. In summary, while the exact date of Mohamed Salah's return remains uncertain, the consensus among Liverpool officials, teammates, and supporters is clear: the club expects the Egyptian star to be match‑fit before the season concludes.
This optimism is grounded in the assessment that his injury is minor and that his rehabilitation is progressing well. Fans can look forward to potentially witnessing Salah don the Liverpool shirt one more time, offering a fitting tribute to a player who has left an indelible mark on the club's history.