Premier League 2025-26: Arne Slot confirms Mo Salah’s return date ahead of Burnley clash

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot announced that defender Conor Bradley will miss the rest of the 2025/26 season after knee surgery. He also confirmed the return date of striker Mohamed Salah.

During his presser, Arne Slot confirmed the Mohamed Salah's return date for Liverpool. Image | Liverpool FC

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has confirmed that defender Conor Bradley will miss the remainder of the 2025/26 season following knee surgery, adding to a growing list of long-term casualties at Anfield. Speaking at the AXA Training Centre ahead of Saturday’s Premier League clash against Burnley, Slot provided a somber update on his squad’s health. While the Reds have avoided any "fresh" injury concerns following their recent FA Cup exploits, the loss of Bradley leaves the squad significantly "stretched" in defensive areas.

The "big blow" for Bradley

Bradley, 22, underwent surgery this week for a significant knee injury sustained during the goalless draw with Arsenal. While scans confirmed he avoided a dreaded ACL rupture, the damage to the ligaments and bone is severe enough to require a months-long rehabilitation process.

The Northern Ireland international took to social media to signal the start of his recovery, writing, "A big blow but surgery is done so the comeback starts now." Slot echoed the sentiment, acknowledging that while the player is resilient, his absence creates a tactical void on the right flank.

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Liverpool’s long-term absentee list

The Reds are currently navigating a challenging period with several key stars sidelined. Slot namechecked three primary concerns during his Friday morning press conference:

Teenage center-back Giovanni Leoni is also ruled out for the season after suffering an ACL injury on his debut in September. Meanwhile, marquee signing Alexander Isak remains a "multiple-month" absentee following a fractured fibula sustained against Tottenham in late December.

Burnley outlook: "A clean bill of health"

Despite the long-term setbacks, Slot was quick to point out that the rest of the squad is fit and ready for the 3 PM GMT kick-off at Anfield.

“Yes, we’ve got a few injuries... but for the rest, I think everyone is available,” Slot confirmed.

This includes winger Rio Ngumoha who was a doubt after limping off against Barnsley with what has now been confirmed as mere cramp.

Additionally, Mohamed Salah is expected to rejoin the squad next week following his AFCON commitments, providing a much-needed boost for the upcoming Champions League fixtures.

With Bradley out, the spotlight now turns to Jeremie Frimpong and the young Calvin Ramsay to fill the gap as Liverpool look to maintain their title charge against a desperate Burnley side.

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