Slot Reaffirms Alisson’s Status Despite Kelleher’s Recent Heroics | OneFootball

Slot Stands Firm on Liverpool’s Goalkeeping Hierarchy

In football, it’s rare for exceptional performances to have no impact on team selection. Yet, when it comes to Liverpool’s goalkeeping situation, Arne Slot has made his stance abundantly clear — Alisson Becker is and will remain Liverpool’s No.1, fitness permitting.

Kelleher’s Heroics in Alisson’s Absence

This season has seen Alisson spend more time on the sidelines than between the posts due to injury. In his absence, Caoimhin Kelleher has seized the opportunity, delivering standout performances, including penalty saves in consecutive matches. Notably, his crucial stop against Kylian Mbappe in Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Real Madrid underlined his quality.

Photo: IMAGO

Slot, however, was quick to temper speculation about Kelleher displacing Alisson. Speaking ahead of Liverpool’s upcoming clash with Manchester City, Slot reaffirmed his commitment to reinstating Alisson as first-choice once he’s fully fit.

Slot Praises Kelleher but Reinforces Decision

“I think every decision I have to make is a difficult one because we have so many quality players,” Slot stated after Kelleher’s heroics against Madrid. “I’ve been clear about that situation, but tonight shouldn’t be about that. It should be about Caoimhin being so important for us.

“It was a big moment for him, a special moment for him. So, let that be the headlines and not the other thing I was quite clear about one or two weeks ago.”

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Slot’s previous comments leave little ambiguity. During the international break, he reiterated his position: “First of all, Alisson needs to become fit, and I’ve always been quite clear — that’s always been the position of Alisson, that he is, and will be, our first goalkeeper if he is fit.”

Fan Opinions and Managerial Clarity

While Kelleher’s form has sparked debate among fans, Slot’s resolve remains unshaken. “The moment Alisson is fit, he will be our first goalkeeper,” Slot emphasised, acknowledging Kelleher’s excellent contributions without wavering on his hierarchy.

Liverpool supporters will undoubtedly continue discussing the matter, but as always, it’s the manager’s view that dictates reality. In Slot’s Liverpool, Alisson remains the trusted guardian of the goal.