Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker has provided insights into the demands placed on modern-day goalkeepers in football.
The Brazilian star has had an impressive year, boasting 13 clean sheets in the Premier League, the most by any goalkeeper in the league during this period.
Alisson’s remarkable save against Miguel Almiron’s half-volley in a 2-1 win against Newcastle United earned him the Save of the Month award for August.
In September, he was again a contender for the same award due to his diving save to deny Heung-min Son in a late 2-1 loss to Tottenham Hotspur, showcasing his exceptional reflexes.
In the realm of modern football, being a goalkeeper is about more than just making saves and collecting crosses.
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The game has evolved, demanding that goalkeepers possess technical skills, the ability to read the game, and composure with the ball at their feet, aligning their abilities with those of outfield players.
Alisson, like many of his fellow goalkeepers, has had to adjust to these new demands, as goalkeepers are now expected to contribute to build-up play and match the skills of their outfield teammates.
While talking to the club’s official website, the keeper said:
“I think you see goalkeepers playing more with their feet from the back, and you see teams playing more with their feet from the back, not only kicking long balls.”
“Football today is asking for a team that builds up. The goalkeeper needs to play, to be good with his feet, but the main part is making saves and doing what a goalkeeper does – leading the team, claiming crosses.”
Alisson has started in nine Premier League matches for the Reds this season. During these games, he has managed to keep two clean sheets, but, on average, has been conceding one goal per game.
One of those clean sheets was secured in a recent 2-0 victory over local rivals Everton.
However, in that particular match, the Merseyside club’s dominance made it relatively easy for the South American star, as he only had to make one straightforward save.
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The 31-year-old is one of the most consistent players in Jurgen Klopp’s side and the fans would love to see their star performer put in more remarkable saves throughout the season.
