Andoni Iraola is hopeful that Alisson Becker will extend his Liverpool contract, but admits the decision ultimately rests with the player. The Reds head coach addressed the goalkeeper's future after Liverpool conceded what he described as "messy" goals in recent defeats.
Contract Situation and Interest
Liverpool triggered a one-year extension in Alisson's deal earlier this year, keeping him at the club until the summer of 2027. However, Juventus showed interest in the summer, and the prospect of the Brazil international leaving as a free agent next year remains genuine.
Iraola confirmed he has had conversations with sporting director Julian Ward about the situation, but conceded that Alisson will make the final decision on his future.
Manager's Comments on Alisson's Future
"I don't know [if this will be Alisson's last season], that is a question you have to ask him," Iraola said. "I hope not, I hope he continues with us for more time. But, when you ask me about contracts and these situations, it is a matter for the players and the club."
"Yes we have continuous conversations with Julian but I cannot tell you everything. We talk between us," he added.
Recent Defensive Errors
Alisson faced scrutiny in Liverpool's last two matches: a 1-0 Premier League defeat to Arsenal and a 3-2 Champions League loss at Fenerbahce. A slack pass to Jeremy Jacquet allowed Kai Havertz to score the winner against Arsenal, while Alisson was involved in a mix-up with Cody Gakpo for Fenerbahce's second goal.
Iraola defended his goalkeeper, saying: "I think we've conceded goals in the last week against Arsenal and Fenerbahce where it is difficult to blame just one player, especially the Fenerbahce goals. They were messy situations, especially the deflection off Cody Gakpo for the second goal. There have been more players involved than just Alisson."
He also took responsibility for the Arsenal goal, noting: "Even in the Arsenal goal, it's true that we messed up in the goal-kick. I assume part of that because I am the one who is telling them to play it. But even after we lose the ball we have eight defenders behind the ball, so Ali is not the one more responsible for those goals."
Iraola acknowledged the team's approach to playing out from the back involves risk, saying: "I agree we did [have some near misses before the Arsenal goal], but it's not as simple as saying: 'We shouldn't do this', or 'We shouldn't continue doing this'. If the situation is clear enough we should definitely play it. But if it is not clear enough it is better not to take risks. We try to help the players to identify when the situation is clear enough to play those kind of bounces or those kind of balls on our edge, or when the press is so aggressive that we should go more direct. Obviously we are going to make some mistakes in this process, yes."
