Liverpool’s preparations for their huge Premier League clash with Manchester United have taken a hit, with Arne Slot confirming that Alisson Becker will miss the next three games due to a hamstring injury.
The news comes at the worst possible time for the Reds, who are looking to end a difficult run of form and keep their title defense alive.
The Brazilian goalkeeper, a key figure in Slot’s system, has been sidelined since picking up the injury before the international break.
While optimism surrounded his recovery, Slot has ruled him out of upcoming matches against Manchester United, Eintracht Frankfurt, and Brentford.
Speaking to reporters, the Liverpool boss said:
“It’s so difficult to say because the end phase of rehab can always give you positives or negatives, but he will not play on the weekend and also not next week.”
The setback leaves Liverpool relying last summer’s new signing Giorgi Mamardashvili, who is expected to start at Anfield on Sunday.
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Liverpool receive Konate boost — but defensive worries remain
While Alisson’s absence is a major blow, Slot did offer some positive news. Ibrahima Konate has returned to training after missing France duty with a thigh injury.
The center-back was forced off during Liverpool’s defeat to Chelsea before the break but shared training photos on social media, hinting at a possible return.
Slot commented: “Ibou has come back to us, started the sessions again and is expected to train with us today.”
Still, Liverpool’s defensive depth remains thin. Youngster Giovanni Leoni is recovering from knee surgery, and summer target Marc Guehi slipped through the net on deadline day.
That leaves Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez as the only fully fit senior center-backs — a risky position heading into a fiery Anfield fixture.
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Isak nearing full fitness — Mac Allister still finding rhythm
Slot also spoke about Alexander Isak, Liverpool’s £125 million summer signing, who has struggled with fitness since joining from Newcastle. The Dutch manager believes the striker is finally approaching full sharpness after playing for Sweden during the international break.
“Fitness-wise he is close to the level he should be and we can judge him in a fair way from now on,” Slot explained.
Meanwhile, Alexis Mac Allister continues to build rhythm after missing parts of pre-season. Slot noted that the Argentine midfielder’s stop-start campaign has affected his consistency but backed him to rediscover his top form soon.
Liverpool will hope that Alisson’s absence doesn’t prove too costly as they host Manchester United in what could be a turning point in their season. With Konate close to returning and Isak ready to fire, the Reds will need every ounce of resilience to stay in the title race.