Liverpool manager Arne Slot has dismissed suggestions that Mohamed Salah’s penalty miss in the team’s 2-0 win over Real Madrid was linked to his ongoing contract situation.

Liverpool secured a 2-0 victory over Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, but the win was marred by a missed penalty from team captain Mohamed Salah.

Despite the miss, which came in the first half, the Reds comfortably held onto their lead, maintaining a perfect record in the group stage with 15 points from five games.

Head coach Arne Slot was asked about Salah’s penalty miss after the match and was quick to dismiss any connection to ongoing speculation about the forward’s future at the club.

Speaking to Sky Italy, Slot stated, “The penalty miss was not caused by any distractions related to Salah’s contract situation.” He went on to reiterate, “It had nothing to do with off-field issues.”

Salah’s current contract with Liverpool runs until the summer of 2025, and although the Egyptian forward has previously mentioned that the club has not yet offered him an extension, Slot’s comments suggest that such concerns are not affecting his performance.

Looking ahead, Liverpool will face a major test on Sunday, December 1, when they take on Manchester City. The Reds are currently eight points clear at the top of the Premier League, and a victory would extend their lead to 11 points, further solidifying their position at the summit.