Liverpool have been given a positive update on Alisson Becker from Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti ahead of Sunday’s final game against Brentford.
The 33-year-old made the World Cup squad despite an injury-riddled season on Merseyside, with another setback forcing him out of the final weeks of the Premier League campaign.
Liverpool have had to manage without their No.1 during a miserable run-in, to add yet another difficulty to the mix.
Should Arne Slot drop Mohamed Salah from the squad to face Brentford? 👀
A sour end could be in store…
But with Brentford now looming, Ancelotti expects Alisson to be available, and he has also made it clear that the goalkeeper should be fully fit for Brazil’s World Cup opener.
Alisson Becker should be back for Brentford and definitely for the World Cup
The World Cup is fast approaching. This could be the final tournament of Alisson’s career as Brazil’s undisputed No.1, so the last thing he needed was another fitness concern before heading away.
Thankfully, Ancelotti does not sound worried.
He said in a recent press conference: “Alisson is returning from injury but has been training for two weeks. He is doing normally, he is well, and I believe he will play the next game [vs Brentford].
“Even if he doesn’t play, he has the time to be 100 percent for the first game of the Cup.”
That is great news for Brazil, but it also matters for Liverpool. It would be brilliant to see Alisson back on the pitch at Anfield on Sunday.
Brentford could be Alisson’s last game for Liverpool
This already promises to be an emotional afternoon, with Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson playing their final games for the club.
Jordan Henderson and Caoimhin Kelleher are also coming back, and there is even a chance Jurgen Klopp could be at Anfield this weekend. Alisson deserves to be part of that occasion.
Who should be Liverpool’s No. 1 next season if Alisson leaves?
Have Mamardashvili's performances been enough for him to take the shirt?
Then there is the more speculative side of things. Alisson continues to be linked with Juventus, and the reporting around his future has suggested that he is open to leaving this summer.
That does not mean an exit is certain. But after everything Alisson has given Liverpool, supporters will want the chance to show their appreciation if this really is the end.
The idea that Brentford could be his final Liverpool appearance is just another reason to hope Ancelotti’s assessment is on the money.
- READ MORE: Jamie Carragher says if Mo Salah should play for Liverpool vs Brentford after controversial post
Receive a digest of our best Liverpool content each week direct to your mailbox
