Alisson: Why Liverpool Early Success Is Built on Team Unity | OneFootball

Alisson Credits Liverpool’s Strong Start to Collective Hard Work Under Arne Slot

Liverpool’s goalkeeper Alisson Becker has attributed the team’s exceptional start to the season to a collective desire and work ethic that has unified Arne Slot’s squad. Slot’s era at Anfield has begun in impressive fashion, with the Reds securing three wins from their first three Premier League fixtures, and all without conceding a goal. Victories against Ipswich Town, Brentford, and a commanding display against Manchester United have placed Liverpool second in the table, tied on points with Manchester City.

The Brazilian shot-stopper believes the secret behind this early success is simple: everyone is committed to doing whatever it takes to win, from attack to defence.

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Slot’s Impact on Team Unity

Reflecting on the team’s early performances, Alisson praised the dedication of his teammates. “The answer the players are giving on the pitch is unbelievable,” Alisson told LiverpoolFC.com. “The hard work is so good – we have to highlight that. Everybody has the same goal of winning the game, keeping the clean sheet and doing whatever is necessary on the pitch – to defend, to attack, to score goals, create chances.”

Slot’s influence is clear. While Liverpool’s talent has never been in question, the new manager has brought fresh energy to the team, and everyone is fighting for the same cause. Alisson points to the entire squad, from the attackers to the defensive line, as key contributors to their early success.

Defending From the Front

While much of the praise has been directed towards Liverpool’s solid defence, Alisson was keen to highlight the contributions of the forward players, particularly Mo Salah and Luis Diaz, who have both found the back of the net three times this season. Alisson says their efforts off the ball have been just as crucial as their attacking contributions.

“He [Salah] is a special player, but he makes it look normal. When you look at his numbers, it’s unbelievable,” Alisson said of the Egyptian forward. “The way Lucho [Diaz] is playing as well – his contribution to the team, his goalscoring, his movements, the things he can do when he has the ball.”

But for Alisson, the defensive work of the forwards truly stands out. “What I want to highlight is the hard work of these guys defensive-wise. They are running a lot, and they are working so hard for the team when they don’t have the ball. I think this is what is making us win these games at the beginning of the season.”

Collective Responsibility Across the Pitch

Alisson made it clear that the early success isn’t just down to Salah and Diaz. The collective efforts of the entire squad, from Diogo Jota to the midfield and defence, are what’s making the difference in these early matches. The shared determination across the squad is setting the tone for the season, ensuring that Liverpool compete both with and without the ball.

“So we have to keep those things going – not only Mo and Lucho but the other boys as well. Diogo [Jota], the midfielders, the line of four, everybody. We are working so hard, and this is what should be highlighted from our side,” Alisson emphasised.

Liverpool will look to maintain their perfect start to the season with their upcoming fixture against Nottingham Forest. With momentum and team cohesion on their side, the Reds aim to build on the foundation set by their work ethic and tactical discipline.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Alisson’s comments are reassuring, if not inspiring. It’s no secret that team spirit and collective effort have been hallmarks of Liverpool’s success in recent years, but the early signs under Arne Slot suggest this could be something different. Slot’s ability to get elite players like Salah and Diaz to not only excel in attack but also contribute to defensive duties speaks volumes about his man-management.

Fans will be particularly excited about how the new system is blending fluid attacking football with defensive solidity. If Salah and Diaz continue to perform at both ends of the pitch, and if the team’s work rate remains this high, Liverpool could find themselves challenging for more than just a top-four finish.

The long-term impact of this early cohesion will be critical, especially as the season intensifies with European commitments and domestic cup competitions. But for now, supporters can be optimistic. The energy, unity, and desire shown on the pitch suggest Liverpool are ready for a serious run at success under Slot’s leadership.a