Liverpool enter Sunday’s Premier League finale against Brentford needing only a draw to secure Champions League qualification, while Arne Slot insists there is no split with Mohamed Salah despite recent social media comments questioning the team’s playing style and hinting at a desire for a more aggressive approach.
The Reds sit fifth, three points behind Aston Villa, and can still finish fourth if Liverpool beat Brentford and Villa lose at Manchester City. That scenario would also create a sixth Champions League spot, which would then go to either Bournemouth or Brighton.
Slot underlined that qualification remains the priority and refused to dwell on the noise around Salah. Slot said: "I don't know if it had an impact on the group. What I have
seen is the team have trained really well this week, and we hope to continue really well in the upcoming two days, so we are really prepared. "
Salah’s future has already been confirmed, with Sunday’s match at Anfield set to be the final appearance for Liverpool after a prolific spell on Merseyside. The 33-year-old has played 441 games in all competitions, scoring 257 goals and delivering 119 assists for the club.
The forward created debate last weekend by posting online that Liverpool should return to the "heavy metal" football associated with Jurgen Klopp’s tenure. Several team-mates liked the post, which fuelled speculation about Slot’s long-term position and suggestions Slot may even depart at the end of the season.
Some pundits argued that Salah’s public comments, which were not a first this season, should lead to Liverpool leaving Salah out of the starting line-up for what would be an emotional farewell at Anfield. Slot’s pre-match media conference therefore centred on Salah’s status and the reaction inside the dressing room.
| Result | Liverpool outcome | Champions League impact |
|---|---|---|
| Liverpool win, Aston Villa lose | Liverpool finish 4th | Fourth spot secured; sixth place also qualifies |
| Liverpool draw vs Brentford | Liverpool secure Champions League place | Qualification confirmed regardless of Villa result |
| Liverpool lose, Aston Villa avoid defeat | Liverpool stay 5th | Champions League depends on wider league allocation |
Liverpool Mohamed Salah unity message from Arne Slot
Slot stressed that there is alignment between coach and forward. Slot said: "I think Mo and I have the same interestswe want the best for this club. We want the club to be as successful as possible. We were both part of giving the fans their first league title in five yearsbut we are also aware of this season. What we want, what he wants and what I want is for the club to be as successful as last season. "
Slot linked that message directly to the Brentford fixture. Slot added: "That is where my main focus is at now, because the game on Sunday could give us a real base heading into next season. That is where we should focus. " The head coach framed the match as both a decisive moment and a platform for future progress.
Questions regarding Salah’s place in the starting XI were met with Slot’s usual reluctance to reveal plans. Slot stated: "I never say anything about team selection. It would be a surprise to you if I did it right now, I think. " The uncertainty leaves open whether Salah begins or features from the bench in the final match.
Slot emphasised that individual feelings, including Slot’s own, are secondary to performance and outcome. Slot said: "I don't think it is that important what I feel about it, Slot added. What is important is that we qualify for the Champions League on Sunday, and I prepare Mo and the rest of the team to be ready for the game in the best possible way. That is what matters. "
The coach also reflected on the missed opportunity against Aston Villa, which delayed qualification. Slot explained: "I was very disappointed after our loss against Aston Villa, because a win would have given us qualification for the Champions Leaguewhich we didn't do. Now there is one game to go, and it's a vital one for us as a club. " That assessment frames Brentford’s visit as decisive for both Liverpool and Salah’s farewell.
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