Mohamed Salah Initiates Rehabilitation for Hamstring Injury, Aims for Africa Cup Return

"Yesterday I started the treatment and rehabilitation program, and I will do everything possible to be ready as soon as possible and return to the national team as was agreed upon from the beginning," Salah announced through his social media channels.

Liverpool's assistant coach, Pep Lijnders, revealed that Salah has a "proper tear in his hamstring," a setback expected to sideline the prolific winger for three to four weeks. The timeline, however, puts Salah's potential return in jeopardy for the Africa Cup final on February 11, just 2½ weeks away. The Egyptian forward's match fitness also remains a concern for Egypt's coach, Rui Vitória.

Despite Salah's absence, Egypt, a seven-time champion, has advanced to the last 16 with three points from three games. The Pharaohs are scheduled to face Congo on Sunday, a team that also progressed to the knockout round without securing a victory in the group stage.

Salah's commitment to a speedy recovery reflects his dedication to representing his nation on the continental stage. The football community will keenly follow his rehabilitation progress, hoping for a swift return of the Egyptian star to the pitch and an exciting comeback for Egypt in the Africa Cup of Nations.