Liverpool star tipped for shock January exit after stuttering start to season

December 4, 2025 Oliver Obel

Liverpool’s 1–1 result against Sunderland on Wednesday described by Sky Sports as a match rescued only by a late Nordi Mukiele own goal brought renewed attention to Arne Slot’s selection choices.

For the second consecutive league fixture, Salah began on the bench, following a similar decision against West Ham United the previous weekend.

According to BBC Sport, Slot has been experimenting with different attacking combinations as Liverpool attempt to stabilise their form after a run of inconsistent performances. Salah, on five goals this season, has yet to find sustained momentum under the new coaching setup.

Redknapp questions long-term future

During Sky Sports’ post-match analysis, former Liverpool midfielder Jamie Redknapp cast doubt on whether Salah would see out the contract extension he signed in April, which keeps him at the club until 2027.

Redknapp said he would be “amazed” if Salah remained at Liverpool for the full duration of the deal, arguing that prolonged spells on the bench are unlikely to sit comfortably with a player of his stature. He suggested that either the January window or the summer could become decisive if the pattern continues. “He wants to play week in, week out,” Redknapp noted.

A potential return of Saudi interest

The forward’s future has drawn attention before, particularly from the Saudi Pro League. Al Ittihad’s £150 million offer in August 2023 reported at the time by BBC Sport demonstrated the league’s ambition to secure a global star in his prime. Liverpool rejected the bid, but the prospect of a renewed approach remains part of the wider discussion surrounding Salah’s situation.

Whether Salah himself would consider such a move is uncertain. Redknapp pointed out that the forward still appears motivated to compete in Europe, suggesting that his personal ambitions will heavily influence any decision.

What it means for Liverpool

Arne Slot faces the challenge of balancing tactical experimentation with managing senior players’ expectations in a dressing room undergoing transition. While Liverpool have halted their losing streak, the unresolved question of Salah’s role adds a new layer of complexity to their season.

Sources: Sky Sports, BBC Sport