Curtis Jones reveals Mo Salah apology to Liverpool teammates

Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones has provided insight into the dressing room dynamics following Mohamed Salah’s public comments earlier in December 2025, confirming that the Egyptian forward addressed his teammates directly and offered an apology for any potential impact from his remarks.

In an interview with Sky Sports ahead of Liverpool’s Premier League fixture against Tottenham Hotspur on December 20, Jones described Salah as remaining positive and unchanged in his interactions despite the controversy. “Mo is his own man and he can say his own stuff,” Jones stated. “He apologised to us and was like, ‘If I’ve affected anybody or made you feel any sort of way, I apologise’. That’s the man that he is.”

Jones emphasised that Salah’s behaviour in training and around the group stayed consistent, with the forward maintaining a positive demeanour. He added that the squad treated Salah the same way, viewing the episode as stemming from a desire to contribute and win rather than any intent to disrupt team harmony.

The comments in question came after Liverpool’s 3-3 draw with Leeds United on December 6, where Salah, an unused substitute for the third consecutive match, expressed frustration in a post-match interview. He stated he felt “thrown under the bus” by the club and revealed a strained relationship with head coach Arne Slot.

Subsequently, Salah was omitted from the squad for a Champions League victory over Inter Milan on December 9. However, he returned as a substitute in the 2-0 Premier League win against Brighton & Hove Albion on December 13, providing an assist in the process.

Head coach Arne Slot, in his pre-match press conference before the Tottenham game, indicated that the matter had been resolved internally. “We moved on,” Slot said, noting that actions on the pitch spoke louder and that there was no lingering issue to address while Salah was away on international duty with Egypt for the Africa Cup of Nations.

Salah has since joined the Egyptian national team for the tournament, which begins in late December 2025, meaning he will miss several club fixtures.

Jones, who has enjoyed a strong run of form recently, also reflected on the broader context of frustrations within the squad during a difficult period for Liverpool. The team endured a poor run of results, including heavy home defeats to Nottingham Forest and PSV Eindhoven, prompting outspoken reactions from players, including Jones himself after the PSV loss.

The midfielder suggested that such expressions arose from a shared commitment to high standards. “When there has been any sort of anger from us, including myself, it has always been from a good place,” he noted. He contrasted this with a hypothetical scenario where a player might be content with limited involvement, implying that passion for playing was preferable.

Liverpool have remained unbeaten in the five matches since Slot began rotating Salah out of the starting lineup, including victories in the Champions League and domestically.

The episode has drawn commentary from former players. Jamie Carragher criticised Salah’s timing and approach, while others highlighted the potential for distraction during a tough spell.

Despite the public scrutiny, sources indicate internal resolution, with the squad focusing on upcoming challenges. The Tottenham match marked another test, with Liverpool aiming to build momentum heading into the busy festive period without their leading scorer.

Salah’s future at Anfield continues to attract speculation, particularly with his contract entering its final months and interest from overseas clubs reported. However, recent performances and reconciliatory steps suggest emphasis on the present campaign.

Jones’s revelations portray a united dressing room, capable of handling internal matters professionally amid external pressures.

Liverpool’s season has seen fluctuations, with early promise giving way to inconsistencies, prompting tactical adjustments from Slot in his first year succeeding Jurgen Klopp.

Player leadership has played a role in navigating setbacks, with veterans like Salah central to recovery efforts when available.

The apology, as described by Jones, underscores Salah’s character and commitment to team cohesion.

As the Africa Cup of Nations progresses, Liverpool will monitor Egypt’s run, potentially extending Salah’s absence.

Club officials have maintained discretion on contract discussions, prioritising on-field matters.

Fan support for Salah remains strong, evident in chants during his Brighton cameo.

The incident highlights challenges of managing high-profile talents during form dips.

Slot’s handling has earned backing, with results improving post-adjustments.

Jones’s emergence as a key midfielder provides positives amid turbulence.

Squad depth faces tests with international call-ups.

Liverpool’s ambitions in multiple competitions persist.

Internal communication proves vital in professional environments.

Salah’s contributions over years cement his legacy.

Current focus aligns on collective goals.

Resolution allows progression without lingering effects.

Team spirit appears resilient.

Upcoming fixtures demand consistency.

Player accountability fosters growth.

Episode closes chapter on recent tensions.

Liverpool eyes stronger second half of season.