Liverpool’s stellar start to the season under new manager Arne Slot has been tempered by the news that first-choice goalkeeper Alisson will be sidelined until late November due to a hamstring injury.
The 32-year-old Brazilian shot-stopper was forced off in the 79th minute of Saturday’s 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace, making way for debutant Vitezslav Jaros.
Alisson’s absence will be deeply felt, as he has been an integral part of Liverpool’s success.
With Alisson out, Liverpool will rely on Caoimhín Kelleher to fill the void.
The Republic of Ireland goalkeeper has previous experience deputizing for Alisson, starting against Bournemouth earlier this season.
However, Kelleher missed Saturday’s match due to illness.
“Alisson is our clear No. 1, the best goalkeeper in the world so it’s a blow when he gets injured for himself and the team,” Slot said after the match on Saturday.
“We have a second option that’s already good. Caoimhín has already shown that, which is why Caoimhín is the No. 2 and the last time Alisson was injured, I played Caoimhín.
He did really well, it’s pleasing to see that our third goalkeeper can have an impact on results as Caoimhín was ill yesterday and today.”
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The timing of Alisson’s injury could not be more crucial, with Liverpool facing a string of high-profile matches after the international break.
These include Chelsea at home in the Premier League, RB Leipzig away in the Champions League,
Arsenal away in the Premier League, Brighton away in the League Cup, and Bayer Leverkusen at home in the Champions League.
Alisson is expected to return after the next international break, when Liverpool travels to Southampton on November 24.
This will be followed by daunting clashes against Real Madrid and Manchester City.
Alisson’s hamstring issues have been a recurring concern this season, and he missed 10 Premier League matches last term.
To address this, Liverpool bolstered their goalkeeping options with the £29 million signing of Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia ahead of next season.
While Kelleher is capable of deputizing, Alisson’s absence will undoubtedly be felt. Liverpool’s depth will be tested, but the squad’s resilience and determination will be crucial in navigating this challenging period.
As Liverpool navigates the upcoming fixtures without their first-choice goalkeeper, the team’s character and resolve will be put to the test.
