Anfield holds its breath. One of the Premier League’s best goalkeepers is in a race against time — and Sunday’s result may depend on the outcome.
Alisson Becker’s fitness is the biggest talking point ahead of Liverpool vs. Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield on Sunday, March 15 (kick-off 4:30 PM GMT). Arne Slot delivered a cautiously optimistic update on Friday, but the Brazilian’s availability is still not guaranteed.
What Happened to Alisson?
Alisson picked up a minor issue during Liverpool’s training session on the eve of their Champions League last-16 first leg against Galatasaray. He took part in the session but felt something towards the end, and after consulting with medical staff, it was decided he should not travel to Istanbul.
The injury, though concerning in timing, was not considered serious. Slot described the problem as not “a big thing,” but said it was too significant to risk the goalkeeper for the Galatasaray match.
With Alisson ruled out, Giorgi Mamardashvili stepped in to start for Liverpool in Turkey, making his first appearance for the club since January.
Slot’s Friday Press Conference Update
Speaking at the AXA Training Centre on Friday, March 13, Slot gave reporters the latest on his first-choice goalkeeper.
“He’s been with the physios and with rehab until now. We are training today, as you know, so let’s see if he can join the team session today. That is something I expect but I’m not 100 per cent sure yet because I haven’t spoken to him or the medical staff this morning yet,” Slot explained.
That cautious tone continued when pressed directly on Sunday’s game.
“I’m hopeful but that’s not to say I’m 100 per cent sure,” the head coach added.
In other words: Alisson is expected to train with the group on Friday. But a final call on his fitness will only be made after Liverpool’s medical staff give the all-clear.
Why Alisson Matters So Much
This is not just a squad rotation question. It is a significant concern for a title-chasing side with goals to protect.
Alisson missed a handful of games earlier this season with a hamstring problem, and was also absent for 25 matches during the 2024-25 campaign due to three separate thigh injuries. These recurring absences are becoming a real issue for Liverpool’s planning.
Liverpool face a packed schedule beyond Sunday. After hosting Tottenham, they must deal with the Galatasaray second leg at Anfield, followed by a trip to Brighton ahead of the March international break. Slot will need his No.1 fit and firing across all fronts.
Mamardashvili Waiting in Reserve
If Alisson does not pass his fitness test, Giorgi Mamardashvili is ready to step in again.
To date, Mamardashvili has made 12 appearances across all competitions for Liverpool. In those matches, he has kept three clean sheets, while the Reds have won five and lost seven of the games in which Slot has opted to start the Georgian shot-stopper.
That record underlines why Liverpool need their Brazilian number one available — especially against a Tottenham side that has been surprisingly dangerous in front of goal despite their struggles.
Tottenham’s Threat Must Not Be Underestimated
Spurs arrive at Anfield in poor form. They are managed by an interim boss and reportedly dealing with off-field tensions. But their attacking numbers tell a different story.
Tottenham have scored in 13 of their last 14 Premier League matches. Even in their darkest moments this season, they have found a way to put the ball in the net.
Liverpool will also look to have Federico Chiesa back in the squad after illness kept him out of the Galatasaray trip, though he is expected to come off the bench rather than start.
Alexander Isak, meanwhile, remains unavailable. Conor Bradley, Giovanni Leoni, Wataru Endo, and Stefan Bajcetic are also set to miss out, though youngsters Jayden Danns and James McConnell are nearing a return.