Liverpool Without Mo Salah: AFCON Lineup Options Explored

Liverpool forward Mohamed Salah could miss crucial matches until mid-January if Egypt calls him up for AFCON duty, leaving Arne Slot with serious decisions about his attacking setup.

The 33-year-old Egyptian has been benched for Liverpool’s last five consecutive games, raising questions about his role under the new head coach. Slot now faces the challenge of reshaping his right-sided attack, starting with Sunday’s trip to Tottenham.

Salah’s potential absence creates an interesting situation at Anfield. The winger has been a constant presence for Liverpool over the years, but recent selections suggest Slot is already planning for life without him in certain matches.

Slot’s recent team selections tell a story

Liverpool’s head coach has dropped Salah to the bench in five straight fixtures, which seems like preparation for the striker’s AFCON departure. This pattern gives us clues about how the Reds might set up during the tournament.

The Egypt forward’s contract situation adds another layer to this discussion. With talks ongoing about his future, Slot might be testing alternative formations that don’t rely on Salah’s output from the right wing.

At 33, Salah remains effective when called upon, but Liverpool are clearly working on backup plans. The coaching staff has used these recent games to trial different attacking combinations, which could prove valuable during AFCON.

Who replaces Salah on the right wing?

Several Liverpool players can slot into Salah’s position during his Egypt commitments. Federico Chiesa arrived from Juventus specifically to provide width and goal threat from either flank, making him the obvious first choice.

The Italian winger brings different qualities than Salah but offers similar attacking intent. Chiesa likes to cut inside from the right, take on defenders, and create chances - all attributes Liverpool need in that area.

Harvey Elliott represents another option for Slot’s consideration. The young English midfielder has played on the right side before and understands what Liverpool need in possession. His technical ability suits the Reds’ passing style perfectly.

Ben Doak, currently on loan at Middlesbrough, won’t be available, but his absence matters less with Chiesa in the squad. Liverpool’s recruitment team planned ahead for Salah’s potential departures, whether temporary or permanent.

Tactical adjustments without the Egyptian

Slot might change Liverpool’s entire system rather than simply finding a like-for-like replacement. The Dutch coach could shift to a formation that doesn’t require a traditional right winger at all.

Darwin Nunez could move wider, allowing another striker to play centrally. This approach would give Liverpool more physicality in attacking areas while maintaining their threat going forward.

Cody Gakpo has featured on the right in previous seasons, though he prefers the left side. The versatile Dutchman gives Slot flexibility if he wants to rotate his front three during a busy period.

Liverpool’s squad depth will be tested regardless of which option Slot chooses. AFCON runs for several weeks, meaning multiple Premier League and cup fixtures without Salah’s contributions.

The Tottenham test comes first

Sunday’s match against Spurs provides the first real examination of Liverpool’s plans. Slot must decide whether to start Salah or continue his recent pattern of benching the forward.

If Egypt confirms Salah’s participation soon, Liverpool might rest him completely to avoid injury before the tournament. This decision would give us an early look at the attacking setup for January’s matches.

Tottenham away represents a tough assignment even with a full-strength squad. Playing without Salah there would send a strong message about Liverpool’s confidence in their alternative options.

The match also offers Slot a chance to fine-tune his tactics before AFCON properly disrupts his planning. Getting the right formula now saves problems later when fixtures pile up.

What this means for Liverpool’s title chase

Missing Salah for several weeks could impact Liverpool’s position at the top of the Premier League. The forward’s goals and assists have contributed significantly to past campaigns, though his reduced minutes lately suggest less dependence.

Slot inherited a squad built around certain players, but he’s showing willingness to make bold calls. Benching Salah five times in a row proves the coach trusts his other attacking options to deliver results.

Liverpool’s next few weeks will reveal whether this confidence is justified. AFCON absences affect multiple clubs, but losing someone of Salah’s quality always creates gaps that need filling.