Liverpool’s Premier League title hopes have been thrown into uncertainty after star goalkeeper Alisson Becker sustained a concerning head injury during Brazil’s 2-1 win over Colombia. The 31-year-old, a linchpin of Jurgen Klopp’s squad, collided gruesomely with Colombian defender Davinson Sanchez in the second half, leaving both players sprawled on the turf. While Sanchez was stretchered off, Alisson was substituted moments later, sparking fears of a concussion.
With Liverpool set to face Everton in a critical Merseyside derby on April 2, the Reds now face an anxious wait to learn the severity of their No. 1’s condition.
Alisson’s injury protocol revealed
Brazil’s team doctor, Rodrigo Lasmar, confirmed post-match that Alisson did not lose consciousness but was pulled from the game as a precaution.
“He was replaced due to a suspected concussion,” Lasmar explained. “We’ll perform a CT scan, followed by a diffusion MRI. If results are normal, we’ll conduct cognitive tests and monitor him over the next few days.”
Alisson remained alert throughout the incident, with Lasmar noting the keeper reported only “minor complaints” of feeling “a little slower.” Strict concussion protocols now dictate his recovery timeline. Under Premier League rules, any player diagnosed with a concussion must sit out at least 14 days, meaning Alisson could miss the Everton clash and potentially more fixtures.
Liverpool’s Dilemma: Derby drama looms without their guardian
The timing couldn’t be worse for Liverpool. Alisson’s potential absence leaves backup keeper Caoimhin Kelleher likely to step in for the high-stakes derby—a match pivotal to Liverpool’s title chase. Currently trailing league leaders Arsenal by just two points, the Reds can ill afford slip-ups. Alisson’s leadership, shot-stopping prowess, and ability to orchestrate play from the back have been central to their campaign, with the Brazilian boasting the league’s third-highest save percentage (78%) this season.
Meanwhile, Brazil faces its own crisis. Alisson is doubtful for Tuesday’s marquee showdown against archrivals Argentina, leaving manager Dorival Júnior scrambling for alternatives. For Liverpool, the focus shifts to mitigation. Kelleher, who shone during Alisson’s hamstring injury earlier this season, will need to replicate his heroics.