Arne Slot states that leaving Liverpool star Mohamed Salah merits a grand farewell

The Egyptian striker, scheduled to depart Anfield by season's close, was substituted during Liverpool's recent 3-1 home victory against Crystal Palace, sparking worries that it could mark his last outing for the team.

Salah waved to the supporters and earned a standing ovation upon leaving the field.

Liverpool announced on Wednesday that Salah, aged 33, sustained a "minor muscle injury" and anticipates his return prior to the season's conclusion.

The team heads to Manchester United on Sunday, bolstered by three successive triumphs that position them securely for qualification to next year's Champions League.

"We anticipate his return towards the season's end, though not in time for Sunday," remarked Liverpool manager Slot during his Friday pre-match briefing.

"It brings significant reassurance that the injury is slight, allowing him to feature for us and participate in the World Cup.

"If any player warrants a grand farewell, it is certainly Mo."

Since joining Anfield in 2017, Salah has netted 257 goals across 440 matches, placing him second only to Ian Rush and Roger Hunt among the club's all-time top scorers.

In December, he engaged in a public disagreement with Slot, claiming "no relationship" existed with the Dutch coach following his exclusion from three straight fixtures.

However, the Liverpool head coach subsequently indicated there was "no issue to resolve" regarding the forward's reintegration.

Liverpool, enduring a sharp decline in their Premier League title defence since late September, face four fixtures ahead, commencing with their journey to United.