His exclusion from the starting lineup in the 2-0 defeat at the Parc des Princes sparked fierce debate in Egypt, where many felt the nation's biggest footballing icon had been treated unfairly at a critical moment of the season. Liverpool finished the first leg with just 26% possession and not a single shot on target.
The goal against Fulham — his 256th in a Liverpool shirt — drew a standing ovation from Anfield and dominated the English press. The Liverpool Echo called it a trademark finish from a man who remained a constant threat down the right flank.
In Egypt, his situation is being followed with particular intensity as the World Cup approaches.
"Although this has been Mohamed Salah's least successful season, he is still capable of deciding a match for Liverpool at any moment," Egyptian journalist Magdy Salama told Foot Mercato.
He was blunt about the bench decision.
"I think Mohamed Salah deserved better treatment, particularly from the club's management and coaches. Liverpool's poor season made Salah a scapegoat for the team's poor performances, but in my opinion, it wasn't his fault."
On Salah's future beyond Liverpool, Salama offered his assessment.
"I believe he is capable of continuing his career in Europe, whether in Spain, France, or Italy. No one can deny Salah's immense talent, and although there are offers from Saudi Arabia and the United States on the horizon, he is expected to make his next decision in the coming days, especially before the World Cup."
This clash against PSG could be one of Salah's last Champions League appearances. Whether Arne Slot starts him on Tuesday will tell its own story.