Arne Slot doesn’t believe Liverpool‘s busy fixture schedule is responsible for Alisson’s recent injury.
The Brazilian goalkeeper is in doubt for this weekend’s Premier League match against Bournemouth due to a slight muscle injury sustained before Liverpool’s Champions League opener against AC Milan.
Despite the injury, Alisson played in the match at San Siro, but his availability for the upcoming game against Bournemouth remains uncertain.
When asked if the congested match schedule contributed to Alisson’s injury, Slot, who was filling in for Jurgen Klopp, expressed his doubts.
In his pre-match press conference, the Dutchman compared the situation to what he experienced during his time in the Eredivisie, stating:
“In Holland, we also play games on the weekend and in the Champions League or Europa League midweek. The only real difference is that in England, we have the League Cup. Until now, I haven’t noticed anything I wasn’t used to at my former club.”
He further elaborated on the differences between the Premier League and other European leagues: “The Premier League has four more games than the Eredivisie, plus the League Cup, but for me, that hasn’t been a problem. The biggest difference is during the Christmas and New Year period, where we play while other leagues take a break.”
Slot also pointed out that teams across Europe, including AC Milan, face busy schedules but the strength and competitiveness of the Premier League make it more challenging:
“The quality of teams like Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth is much higher than some Eredivisie teams that don’t compete for the top six positions.”
Slot’s stance contrasts with former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who was vocal about the demanding English football calendar.
This issue has been highlighted by players like Manchester City’s Rodri, who suggested that players might consider going on strike if no changes are made, especially with events like the revamped Club World Cup looming.
As for Alisson, Liverpool will be closely monitoring his fitness. If he misses the Bournemouth match, he will aim to return next week against Wolves. In the meantime, backup goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher is expected to start in the midweek Carabao Cup match against West Ham.
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