Following Liverpool F.C.âs dominant 4-0 win over Galatasaray S.K. in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16 second leg at Anfield on March 18, 2026, manager Arne Slot delivered a worrying update about one of his most important players. The Dutch coach confirmed that Mohamed Salah picked up a serious injury during the game and is expected to be out for an extended period.
Speaking after the match, Slot revealed that Salah felt something tear when he went down but initially tried to play through the pain before it became too severe. Medical checks later confirmed the injury is significant, leaving the manager deeply concerned as he plans to visit the forward НиŃнО to better understand the situation.
The incident happened late in the second half, around the 75th minute, with Liverpool already firmly in control. Salahâwho had earlier scored with a trademark left-footed finishâwent down while tracking back and grabbed his hamstring. Despite attempting to continue, the 33-year-old eventually signaled to be substituted, an unusual move for a player known for his toughness.
Slot explained that Salah admitted he felt a tear but pushed on to help the team, only stopping when the pain became unbearable. Early assessments suggest a grade 2 or 3 hamstring tear, meaning he could be sidelined for several weeks or even months, pending further medical evaluation.
The injury comes at a crucial time for Liverpool, with Salah in outstanding form this season and playing a key role in their European run. His absence is likely to affect upcoming fixtures, including a Premier League clash with Brighton & Hove Albion F.C. and a high-stakes quarter-final tie against Paris Saint-Germain F.C..
Despite the emphatic victoryâfeaturing goals from Dominik Szoboszlai, Hugo Ekitike, Ryan Gravenberch, and Salahâthe mood was dampened by the setback. Slot praised Salahâs determination, calling him not just a scorer but a leader who rarely asks to come off.
Medical experts indicate that such hamstring injuries typically require careful rehabilitation to avoid recurrence, especially for a player who depends heavily on speed and agility.
Liverpool now faces a tactical challenge, with Slot expected to reshuffle his attack using options like Ekitike or players such as Cody Gakpo and Diogo Jota.
Supporters have flooded social media with messages of encouragement for Salah, confident in his ability to recover strongly. Slot emphasized that while the loss is significant, it also presents an opportunity for others to step up, reaffirming the teamâs unity and commitment during a difficult moment.
