Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has addressed the ongoing fitness issues surrounding goalkeeper Alisson Becker, who suffered another setback before the international break. The 32-year-old Brazilian was forced off during Liverpool’s narrow 1-0 win against Crystal Palace, and reports indicate he will be out until after the November international break due to a hamstring injury.
This situation poses a significant challenge for Slot, as Alisson is a key player both on the pitch and within the squad. His absence is a substantial blow, disrupting Liverpool’s goalkeeping stability. In light of this setback, Slot revealed that the club is investigating the reasons behind Alisson’s recurring injuries, which are unusual for a goalkeeper.
With Alisson sidelined, backup goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher is set to take over in the coming weeks. However, Alisson’s persistent fitness problems raise concerns for his future, especially with Georgian goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili expected to join Liverpool next summer. It’s crucial for Alisson to address these injury issues to retain his position as the club’s first-choice keeper.
In a recent press conference, Slot discussed Alisson’s situation, confirming that Liverpool is actively exploring the root causes of his injuries. He mentioned that while muscle injuries in goalkeepers are uncommon, they can happen. Reflecting on his past experience, Slot noted, “It’s not entirely unusual; the goalkeeper I worked with at Feyenoord also had similar issues. But generally, it’s rare.” He emphasized the increased risk of further injuries following an initial one and highlighted the club’s cautious approach to Alisson’s recovery.
Alisson’s injury history is concerning, impacting his availability for Liverpool significantly. Last season, he missed 10 league games and a total of 19 matches due to similar issues and international duty. His injury troubles date back further, with 10 absences in the 2020/21 season and 18 in the 2019/20 campaign, when Liverpool won the Premier League.
Given Alisson’s crucial role, this ongoing issue requires thorough investigation. Liverpool is committed to identifying the underlying causes of his muscle injuries and finding solutions to prevent further setbacks. Ensuring Alisson’s fitness is a top priority for the club, considering his importance to the team’s stability and performance.
Alisson’s injury struggles have affected the team’s defensive consistency, making the need for a long-term resolution increasingly urgent. Slot’s comments underscore the challenges of managing a player with a history of muscle issues and highlight Liverpool’s efforts to keep their star goalkeeper fit for the season ahead.
The upcoming absence of Alisson presents an opportunity for Kelleher to shine, but it also puts pressure on Liverpool’s medical and coaching staff to manage his recovery carefully. With Mamardashvili’s arrival on the horizon, the club must assess Alisson’s fitness to make informed decisions about the future of the goalkeeping position. The immediate focus is on uncovering the causes of his injuries and implementing strategies to reduce the risk of further problems.
Liverpool’s approach to managing Alisson’s situation reflects a broader strategy aimed at minimizing injury impacts on key players during a demanding season. By thoroughly examining the factors contributing to Alisson’s recurring issues, the club aims to protect one of its most valuable assets and maintain competitiveness across all competitions.
