Mohamed Salah has reiterated his affection for Egypt but responded to critics after departing from their Africa Cup of Nations camp due to a hamstring injury.
The winger was substituted at halftime during Egypt’s 2-2 draw with Ghana in their second group stage match. Initially expected to make a swift return, further examinations revealed a more serious injury, prompting his return to Liverpool for treatment.
While Salah may rejoin the Pharaohs’ camp later in the tournament if he recovers quickly, his decision to leave has stirred controversy in Egypt. Legendary player Ahmed Hasan accused Salah of scheming his departure, a claim refuted by Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp and assistant Pep Lijnders.
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Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Salah addressed the situation for the first time, stating, “Yesterday I started the treatment and rehabilitation program, and I will do everything possible to be ready as soon as possible and return to the national team as was agreed upon from the beginning. I also love it [Egypt] and its people…try harder.”
Salah’s use of emojis and a seemingly passive-aggressive tone fueled further discussion on social media, with some questioning his seriousness and commitment.
Egypt has advanced to the last 16 of AFCON, facing DR Congo on Sunday, with a potential quarter-final against Guinea or Equatorial Guinea on February 2. Semi-finals are scheduled for February 7, and the final on February 11. If Egypt reaches the last four but falls, they will participate in a third-place play-off on February 10.
Meanwhile, Liverpool is set to face Norwich City in the FA Cup fourth round before challenging Premier League opponents Chelsea and Arsenal. Salah is expected to be fit again for the match against Burnley on February 10 and the subsequent fixture against Brentford before the Carabao Cup final against Chelsea on February 25.