Liverpool Boss Arne Slot on Why Alisson Becker Was Absent

Slot Confirms Alisson's Absence Due to Personal Reasons

Slot Confirms Alisson's Absence Due to Personal Reasons

As Liverpool’s pre-season drew to a close with a spirited 3-1 win over Yokohama F. Marinos in front of over 67,000 fans, the club’s standout goalkeeper Alisson Becker was a notable absentee from the matchday squad.

While the Reds’ youthful lineup impressed in Japan, questions naturally surfaced about the whereabouts of the Brazilian No.1. Speaking to Liverpoolfc.com ahead of kickoff, manager Arne Slot clarified the situation, offering both perspective and empathy.

"He had to go back to Brazil for private reasons," Slot explained. "That's far from ideal – first of all for the private reasons, second of all for him to not be there in a game like this and in pre-season it's also not ideal if you miss out on part of the pre-season. But again, private life is more important in these matters than joining a game today."

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It was a composed and respectful response from the Liverpool boss. And while Slot would have preferred to have Alisson present, especially for match sharpness and continuity, the message was clear: the well-being of the player comes first.

Liverpool Boss Arne Slot Reveals Why Alisson Becker Was Absent

In Alisson’s absence, it was Giorgi Mamardashvili who stepped into the starting role and delivered a steady performance between the posts. The Georgian international made a key save late in the first half to deny a sharp header from Jun Amano, keeping the match level before Liverpool's second-half rally.

Slot’s handling of Alisson’s situation speaks to his player-first philosophy, balancing professionalism with compassion. No specific timeline has been set for the keeper’s return.