Alisson's long-term future at Liverpool remains uncertain after being linked with an exit before the summer transfer window, and it has been suggested he has a lot to prove over the coming months
15:59, 29 Jul 2026
Alisson Becker in action for Brazil during the FIFA World Cup
Alisson Becker's long-term future at Liverpool is uncertain(Image: Photo by Image Photo Agency/Getty Images)
Liverpool star Alisson Becker has a lot to prove this season, according to former USMNT goalkeeper Brad Friedel.
Alisson endured a mixed 2025/26 campaign due to his ongoing injury concerns, which ultimately led to him missing most of the end of the season. New arrival Giorgi Mamardashvili stepped up in his absence, and there remains a question mark over Liverpool's long-term plans in goal.
The Reds shot-stopper did represent his country at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, helping Brazil reach the Round of 16 before it was eliminated by Norway. However, despite Brazil's relatively early exit from the tournament, Alisson will be one of the later returnees for preseason.
Friedel, who represented Liverpool 31 times during his playing days, believes the first five months of the season will be decisive in terms of Alisson's long-term future at Anfield. If the goalkeeper's injury woes are behind him, he believes the 33-year-old should comfortably retain his position as first choice and should be rewarded with a new contract.
However, with Mamardashvili looming and other potential options available, persistent injuries could force new head coach Andoni Iraola and the club's hierarchy into a decision. "I think he (Iraola) starts with him, and I think he sees how his fitness is and form up until January," Friedel explained to Betting Sites, where you can review the best sportsbooks.
"If he looks good, I think they'll offer him another contract. If it's hit or miss, or he's getting injured, then I think they'll still have him play until the end of his contract, and then I think they'll be on the lookout for another (goalkeeper), which I'm sure they're already on the lookout for.
Giorgi Mamardashvili in action for Liverpool during a preseason friendly
Giorgi Mamardashvili is battling to become Liverpool's No.1 goalkeeper(Image: Photo by Bill Barrett/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
"These clubs will know everyone that's available, and they'll be doing their monitoring. I think they'll be hopeful that he stays fit, and if he stays fit, you've got an outstanding goalkeeper on your hands.
"How old is he? 34 (in October)? He's still got years ahead of him. He has picked up a couple of injuries, but at 34, that is not an alarming age for a goalkeeper, so I would think that they'll see if he fits in with Iraola and all his plans. And if he does, give the guy the extension. He's been incredible over the years."
Alisson had been linked with a potential exit this summer, with Italian giants Juventus rumored to be interested in the goalkeeper. However, Iraola has already expressed his desire to keep his most experienced players, including Alisson, at the club.
"I'm very happy with the situation we have right now in the goalkeeping area," Iraola explained during a press conference last week.
"Alisson is someone also in a changing room that has lost some references in terms of experience, I think he's someone that definitely will help us in this process of adaptation of the new signings, of the new players, the young players.
Article continues below
"We need the references like Virgil [van Dijk], like Alisson, like Joe Gomez, players that have been here for a long time."