As Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker navigates a season of change, he’s had to adapt to life without Jurgen Klopp and the two goalkeeping coaches he considers close friends. However, the 31-year-old Brazilian has reaffirmed his commitment to the Reds, rejecting a lucrative offer from Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia.
New manager Arne Slot will be relieved to have Alisson on board, especially after the team’s win and clean sheet in their first game under his leadership. Their next challenge comes against Brentford at Anfield today.
In an exclusive chat, Alisson confirmed the interest from Saudi Arabia, saying, “When you hear about the numbers other players are getting for playing in Saudi, you are a little bit attracted, that is normal, but it never got to the point where I was talking about wages.”
Alisson has insisted he plays football for love and does not intend to leave Liverpool
The money on offer from Saudi Arabia is ‘attractive’ but he is ‘really happy’ staying put
Alisson emphasized his happiness at Liverpool, stating, “I have a contract with Liverpool and I want to finish it, or make a new one. I’m really happy. While I have my contract, I will be focused here at Liverpool.”
The Brazilian goalkeeper has made 200 Premier League appearances, earning him a reputation as one of the best in the world. His contract at Anfield runs until 2027.
Alisson has praised new manager Arne Slot, saying, “I saw how cool he was and how clear his ideas were. I think he’s the right choice. The style he brings is similar to what we had before.”
Arne Slot is the ‘right choice’ to succeed Jurgen Klopp because of his playing style
Alisson has also been impressed with Slot’s approach to the game, saying, “It’s not the manager saying, ‘Just play short passes.’ He’s open to everything and understands that sometimes you are going to use long balls. We have quick players up front. If we can create spaces from goal-kicks or deep positions, that’s also good for us.”
The change in goalkeeping coaches has had a significant impact on Alisson’s daily routine, but he’s adjusting well to the new setup. “I’m still in touch with John and Jack and they will be friends for life. I have great gratitude to them for the things they did. Otte is a nice guy and enthusiastic. He’s young and brings a lot of energy and likes to work. That’s what I needed.”
Alisson’s perspective on his career has changed since the tragic loss of his father in 2021. He now takes a pragmatic approach to Liverpool’s pursuit of keeper Giorgi Mamardashvili of Valencia and Georgia, acknowledging that the club needs to prepare for the future.
“The club needs to prepare for the future. We’re not going to last forever. I have a lot of energy and still have much to give but Liverpool have to prepare for seasons ahead.”
‘I never thought about leaving (this summer). I’m excited about what this season brings for us’
Mamardashvili is unlikely to arrive in England until next year, but Alisson is focused on the present, saying, “On my side, as long as I have my contract here and we are both happy, and my family, I will stay. I never thought about leaving (this summer) and I’m excited about what this season brings for us.”