It could be considered a little over the top to associate an under-18’s match as a high-stakes encounter, but for Liverpool goalkeeper Marcelo Pitalugo, that certainly isn’t the case.
The 17-year-old goalkeeper has been with the Reds for the best part of two months and Liverpool senior staff have been impressed with the impact of the summer signing, according to Goal.
Since his arrival, the Brazilian shot-stopper has clocked up two appearances for the U18s and is in line to start against Manchester United this afternoon at 11:30 GMT.
It will represent arguably his biggest challenge so far for a number of reasons.
For one, it is a top-of-the-table clash in the U18s Premier League North between two teams that are currently gridlocked on 21 points. It is potentially a six-point encounter.
Also, United have a game in hand on Marc Bridge-Wilkinson’s team, so the room for error is minimal.
Another reason why Pitaluga will be desperate to impress in today’s fixture will be in the aftermath of Caoimhin Kelleher’s recent performance against Ajax in midweek.
The 22-year-old’s Champions League debut signified that Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has no qualms in throwing an unproven youngster in at the deep end when an opportunity is justified.
It proved to be a stroke of genius from Klopp’s behalf and one that could have positive repercussions for Pitaluga.
An early opportunity
With Alisson Becker [Sky Sports] on the sidelines as a result of a hamstring injury, Kelleher could be expected to retain his spot in the senior side.
This potentially vacates the Irishman’s position in Barry Lewtas’ U23s which Pitaluga will be eager to seize.
Naturally, Vitezslav Jaros would be expected to step up in Kelleher’s absence although Pitalaga’s can raise his prospects with a strong performance against United with the U23s not in action until next week.
The report from Goal claims that the 6ft 3ins shot-stopper, who has represented his country at youth level, has made a big impact behind the scenes with Liverpool’s staff having been suitably impressed.
“Pitaluga is there on his merits. Liverpool had been watching him for a long time. We know the potential he has, the great goalkeeper he is and, even more, what he will achieve,” Muriel Becker, the older brother of Alisson and Pitaluga’s former teammate, told Globo Esporte a few months ago.
“He is an excellent boy, from a good family, down to earth and he works hard. I’m sure he will make football history.
“We were very happy (to see him head to Liverpool). I am also happy that he will be Alisson’s companion, who will be able to help and accompany him. He is a boy who loves to learn, he is always listening. I am very happy with his success, he is deserving of it.”
According to UOL, Liverpool believe Pitaluga to be the long-term successor and heir to current No.1 Alisson at Anfield.
The early signs certainly look promising.
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