Liverpool manager Arne Slot has been dealt a devastating blow with confirmation that star goalkeeper Alisson Becker will be sidelined for up to six weeks with a serious hamstring injury.
The Brazilian international's absence couldn't come at a worse time for the Reds, who face a nightmare run of fixtures that could define their season. Alisson is set to miss at least eight crucial matches across three competitions.
Fixtures Under Threat
Among the high-stakes encounters where Liverpool will be without their defensive linchpin:
- Premier League: Chelsea (A), Manchester City (H)
- Champions League: Real Madrid (home and away)
- Premier League: Tough tests against Aston Villa and Brighton
The timing is particularly brutal for Slot, who had already expressed concerns about his team's "creaky" defensive structure. Losing the world-class Brazilian represents his worst fear realised.
Defensive Worries Mount
Alisson's injury exposes Liverpool's vulnerability at the back, with deputy goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher now facing immense pressure. While the Irish international has shown promise in cup competitions, stepping into Alisson's gloves during this critical period represents a monumental challenge.
Liverpool's title aspirations and European dreams now hinge significantly on how well their backup goalkeeper copes with the pressure cooker of facing Europe's elite attackers.
The coming weeks will test the depth of Slot's squad and the resilience of a defence that can no longer rely on their safety net between the posts.
