The record-breaking transfer of Alisson Becker from AS Roma to Liverpool earlier this summer surprised a lot of people but there was no doubt that he would be an immediate solution to the Reds’ goalkeeping problems from last season. With a tricky start to the season against West Ham United followed by a trip to Crystal Palace, many critics believed that we could get to see what the Brazilian international is made of as he embarked upon his career at Merseyside.
Early Signs Have Been Promising
Fast forward three weeks and here we are with Liverpool currently leading the Premier League standings having not conceded a single goal in their first three matches of the season. Jurgen Klopp’s players made a great start to their season when they dominated the Hammers at Anfield which was followed by a gritty performance at Selhurst Park versus the Eagles. Alisson was tested in the game quite often and to the delight of Kopites all around the world, the 25-year-old passed with flying colours as his ball distribution stood out while he also made some good saves when called into action.
Alisson Becker: More Than A Shot-stopper?
A confident Brighton and Hove Albion side was his sternest test yet as they came to Anfield on Saturday with a focus to fight for a result. The Seagulls frustrated the Reds attack for long periods and even managed to test Alisson in the second half. The Brazilian made a world-class save late in the game to deny Chris Hughton’s team a point from the clash. However, it was the former AS Roma goalie’s brilliance on the ball which was once again the centre of attention as he showed some excellent ball handling skills during the match which caught the eyes of the Anfield faithful.
True Tests Lies Ahead
With some tough fixtures coming up in the next few months which include trips to Tottenham Hotspur and then Chelsea before the Reds play hosts to Manchester City at Anfield, the Brazilian would be expected to produce the goods on a weekly basis. If he can come away unscathed and can prove his value in these difficult fixtures, then he could surely make Liverpool genuine contenders for the Premier League title.
Has Alisson Already Made Liverpool Realistic Title Challengers?
The early signs have been quite promising indeed but the fact that the Merseyside club are yet to play any of their title rivals indicates that it is too soon to jump to conclusions right now. Alisson has proven that he could be the man to help Liverpool compete for the league title but he would also need his teammates to step up when need be and deliver under high-pressure circumstances if the Reds are to be in with a real chance of Premier League glory at the end of this campaign.
The Brazilian shot-stopper cannot do it alone and would need collective help from his colleagues but he has surely given hope and proves that the Merseyside giants have the squad to mount a title challenge this season.