Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson ruled out of Champions League quarter-final against PSG
Liverpool will be without first-choice goalkeeper Alisson for their Champions League quarter-final against Paris Saint-Germain after the Brazilian sustained a muscle injury. Manager Arne Slot confirmed the news in a press conference on Friday, stating the goalkeeper will be sidelined for "a little longer than expected" but is anticipated to return before the season's end.
Alisson's absence is a significant blow for the Reds, who face the French champions in the first leg of their last-eight tie imminently. The 31-year-old also missed Liverpool's Premier League defeat to Brighton at the beginning of March, having been rested during the recent international break. His deputy, Caoimhin Kelleher, is now expected to start in goal for both legs of the crucial European fixture.
In more positive news for Slot, forward Alexander Isak has returned to training and is set to be available for the clash with PSG. The Swedish striker could even feature in this weekend's domestic match. Mohamed Salah and Jeremie Frimpong, who have also been recovering from injuries, are likely to be involved against Manchester City on Saturday, according to the manager's update.
The injury to Alisson, a pivotal figure since his then-club record £65 million move from Roma in 2018, disrupts Liverpool's preparations for one of their biggest matches of the season. He has been a consistent performer, winning the Premier League's Golden Glove award last season. His leadership and shot-stopping ability will be missed against a PSG attack led by Kylian Mbappe.
For PSG, Liverpool's setback could provide a marginal psychological advantage ahead of the tie. The French side, however, will be without forward Hugo Ekitike for the reunion with his former club. The focus now shifts to how Slot's side adapts defensively without their established number one, placing greater responsibility on Kelleher, who has Champions League experience from previous campaigns.
