Liverpool‘s head coach Arne Slot has provided an update on the fitness of key players Alisson Becker, Federico Chiesa, and Diogo Jota, with all three sidelined for the foreseeable future.
Slot addressed their conditions during a pre-match press conference held ahead of Liverpool’s upcoming Premier League clash against Brighton & Hove Albion. Unfortunately for Liverpool fans, the head coach confirmed that none of the three players would be available for selection until after the international break in November at the earliest.
According to Slot, estimating precise return dates for Alisson, Chiesa, and Jota is challenging. He acknowledged that while the players are progressing in their recoveries, the final stages of rehabilitation can be unpredictable. “I think I’ve said it before, but it’s always tough to give a specific timeline,” Slot explained regarding Alisson and Jota. He noted that recovery timelines can fluctuate, particularly in the final stretch, where players may require a few additional days or, conversely, might heal faster than anticipated. “But the fact remains they won’t be back before the international break, and we’ll just have to see if they can join us afterward,” he added, leaving some room for optimism but stressing the unpredictability of injury recoveries.
Slot further discussed Chiesa’s status, indicating that the Italian forward remains unavailable until at least the international break. However, he was hopeful that Chiesa could potentially resume some training activities during that period. Slot hinted that, depending on how Chiesa progresses over the next week or so, he may be fit to rejoin the team after the international break. “Chiesa won’t be back before the break,” he noted, “but with only a week left, we’re hoping he can participate in some sessions over the break and possibly be ready to come back to us afterward.”
The news of Alisson, Chiesa, and Jota’s unavailability is undoubtedly a setback for Liverpool, especially as they face a busy fixture schedule in the Premier League and other competitions. Alisson’s absence will be felt significantly between the posts, as the Brazilian goalkeeper has been a consistent presence and a reliable performer for the team. In his place, Liverpool’s backup keeper will need to step up and fill the void, adding pressure on the defense to remain tight and cohesive.
Jota’s injury will impact Liverpool’s attacking options, as the Portuguese forward has been a versatile and dynamic figure in the squad. Known for his sharp movement and clinical finishing, Jota’s absence could affect Liverpool’s offensive depth, particularly in matches that require a variety of attacking solutions. With him out, Liverpool may need to rely on other forwards or midfielders to cover his role, testing the adaptability of Slot’s lineup during a period of intense matches.
For Chiesa, the focus will be on regaining full fitness so he can make a strong return to the pitch. As a recent addition to Liverpool’s lineup, Chiesa has shown flashes of the skill and creativity that made him a sought-after player, and his recovery will be closely monitored as the team aims to integrate him fully. Slot’s comments suggested cautious optimism about Chiesa’s ability to use the international break as an opportunity for additional conditioning.
The November international break now looms as a crucial period for Alisson, Jota, and Chiesa. As the Liverpool squad prepares to face Brighton & Hove Albion and other upcoming opponents, Slot and his coaching team will be looking at ways to adapt their lineup and strategies to maintain form in the players’ absence.
COMMENTS