Alisson pulls out of Liverpool’s pre-season squad citing personal reasons
Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker has withdrawn from the club’s pre-season tour in Japan due to personal issues, according to reports from The Athletic. The Brazilian shot-stopper was expected to start against Yokohama F. Marinos on Wednesday, but has since returned to the United Kingdom after speaking with the club’s board.
Alisson exits Tokyo training camp ahead of friendly match
The 31-year-old did not take part in Liverpool’s open training session on Tuesday (July 29) in Tokyo, prompting questions about his status in Arne Slot’s squad. It was later confirmed that Alisson requested early leave due to personal matters, a request that was accepted by the club.
With his absence confirmed, Giorgi Mamardashvili is expected to start in goal against Yokohama F. Marinos. The 24-year-old Georgian goalkeeper joined Liverpool in 2024 from Valencia and signed a long-term contract until June 2031.
Is Liverpool planning for a future beyond Alisson?
Alisson’s withdrawal from pre-season has fueled ongoing speculation about his future at Anfield. Although the club maintains that his absence is temporary and unrelated to transfer movement, the presence of Mamardashvili has introduced a new layer of competition for the No. 1 shirt.
Standing at 6’7″, Mamardashvili has emerged as one of Europe’s most promising keepers, with a breakout stint in La Liga earning him a move to Merseyside. Liverpool’s technical staff reportedly see him as part of a natural long-term transition, though Alisson remains the favorite to start the 2025/26 season assuming full fitness and availability.
Liverpool active in transfer market ahead of new season
Aside from the changes in goal, Liverpool continues to be aggressive in the transfer market. The club has already signed Jeremie Frimpong, Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez, and Hugo Ekitike, and are pushing to bring in Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak, a player who reportedly has Arne Slot’s full backing.
The sale of Luis Díaz to Bayern Munich has freed up considerable funds, which could facilitate the Isak deal before the window closes. Liverpool’s focus appears to be on reinforcing both ends of the pitch as they look to bounce back in the post-Klopp era.
