Key Return and Squad Limitations
Liverpool have named a 20-man squad for their Champions League match against Marseille with Mohamed Salah returning after concluding his Africa Cup of Nations campaign over the weekend. The Egyptian forward’s availability provides a major lift for Arne Slot as the team seeks to secure their path in the competition.
A draw will guarantee Liverpool a place in the knockout stages but they need more than a point to bypass the playoffs and advance directly. This penultimate fixture in the league phase carries significant importance.
The squad announcement revealed only 17 outfield players available highlighting ongoing injury and availability issues. Liverpool avoided new injuries in their recent match against Burnley yet remain short-handed.
Konate’s Uncertain Status
Ibrahima Konate is notably absent from the traveling group after missing Tuesday’s training session due to family reasons. The defender is currently in another part of France and did not join the team for the trip.
Slot was cautious when asked about Konate’s potential late arrival. He said he would speak to the player again tomorrow but confirmed Konate did not travel with the squad and left further details at that. No firm decision on his participation has been made yet.
With Salah’s return offering attacking quality Liverpool will rely on their available options to handle a motivated Marseille side at home. Slot’s side must manage the thin resources carefully to achieve the required result and strengthen their position in the Champions League standings.
