Alisson Becker could make his long-awaited return to the Liverpool lineup in Tuesday’s Champions League clash with Girona at the Estadi Montilivi after head coach Arne Slot confirmed the Brazilian goalkeeper is ready to start. Alisson has been sidelined since early October due to a hamstring injury sustained during Liverpool’s 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace. However, after completing a training session on Monday morning and traveling with the team to Spain, Alisson has been declared fit to play. His return is a significant boost for Liverpool, and Slot praised the impact Alisson has had for both Liverpool and the Brazil national team, saying, “It speaks for itself really.”
Although Slot acknowledged that Caoimhín Kelleher, who has admirably stepped in for Alisson during his absence, performed well over the past two months, he emphasized the difference Alisson can make when available. Slot remarked, “It is nice to have him back and available,” while adding that Kelleher’s performances made it difficult for anyone to do better. The manager also assured that Liverpool now has “two great goalkeepers” who can both do the job for the team.
Despite Alisson’s absence, Liverpool has enjoyed a strong run in the Champions League, going over seven hours without conceding a goal. Slot attributed this success not only to the goalkeepers but also to the general quality of the team. He made it clear that Liverpool will continue fielding their strongest possible lineup as they aim to qualify directly for the last 16 of the competition, noting that their current position gives them a five-point cushion.
In addition, Slot expressed his intent to secure a top-eight finish in the group, which would allow Liverpool to avoid the extra playoff round. Although Slot acknowledged that other top clubs, like Arsenal and Manchester City, are likely to also finish in the top eight, he emphasized the importance of maintaining strong performances throughout the group stages. With the Merseyside derby postponed, Slot confirmed that the team will not need to rotate players in the immediate future, allowing them to continue playing their strongest side.
