Darwin Nunez had to intervene to calm the situation before the substitutions could take place. There have been previous instances of conflict between Mohammed Salah and Jurgen Klopp, and it seemed to be occurring more frequently this season. Two minutes after Sheffield United’s equalizer, Klopp decided to replace Salah. Despite accepting his coach’s handshake, Salah did not look at Klopp as he left the pitch.

Fortunately, Liverpool went on to win 3-1. With the team still adjusting under Klopp, Liverpool needed a goal as the final 10 minutes approached. Salah’s shot was saved, and Klopp was visibly frustrated that he hadn’t chosen to pass the ball to Luis Diaz, who had previously scored. Klopp’s expletive-laden message to “pass the ball” was met with Salah barely acknowledging him as he was replaced by Sadio Mane.

Following Salah’s substitution, Brighton scored a stoppage-time penalty, resulting in a draw. However, Klopp noted that Salah had recently returned from a COVID-19 absence and emphasized the need to manage his playing time carefully. In May 2022, Salah attempted to explain his frustration with Klopp, acknowledging that Klopp knows how to keep the team happy but also jokingly admitted that Klopp sometimes makes him angry. Salah mentioned that Klopp tells him it’s not normal to play every minute in the league, emphasizing the importance of carefully managing players’ playing time.