Liverpool Facing Key Fitness Decisions as Chelsea Clash Looms

Arne Slot has confirmed Liverpool will be without Alisson Becker for an extended spell, though Hugo Ekitike could return sooner than expected. The news comes after a testing week for the Premier League champions, who fell to a 1-0 defeat away at Galatasaray in the Champions League.

Alisson Becker sidelined after hamstring setback

Liverpool’s goalkeeper was forced off in Istanbul and underwent scans on Thursday that revealed a hamstring injury. Initial assessments suggest Alisson will be out for around six weeks, which could see him miss up to eight fixtures, taking him beyond the November international break.

Speaking to reporters ahead of Saturday’s meeting with Chelsea, Slot confirmed his first-choice goalkeeper would not feature. “Alisson is not part of the squad tomorrow and he’s not going to travel to Brazil as well for the national team. He will be out for Saturday [against Chelsea],” the Liverpool manager said.

When pressed for more detail, Slot admitted he could not provide a firm timescale. “That depends on how fast a recovery goes. It’s clear that he’s not here Saturday, not going to play for Brazil and I would be surprised if he would be there for the first game after the international break,” he explained.

The injury is concerning for Liverpool given Alisson’s history of muscular problems, particularly hamstring strains. Asked about the recurring nature of the issue, Slot responded, “I’m not a doctor, so I cannot tell you if it’s the same every time. What I’m mainly interested in is if he can play at the weekend and how long it will take.”

Giorgi Mamardashvili will start in goal against Chelsea, with Freddie Woodman set to take a place on the bench.

Encouraging signs for Hugo Ekitike

Liverpool’s summer signing Hugo Ekitike was also withdrawn against Galatasaray, raising fears of another blow in attack. However, Slot struck a more optimistic tone regarding the French forward.

“Hugo is going to train today again and let’s see where he is. The same can be said of Federico [Chiesa]. We have to wait and see after the session,” he said.

While it remains unclear if Ekitike will be ready to face Chelsea, the fact he is back in training offers encouragement for Liverpool supporters. His return could be crucial in maintaining attacking rhythm at a time when injuries are testing the squad.

Slot balancing challenges and opportunities

Slot’s first season at Anfield delivered the Premier League title, but the 2025-26 campaign is already throwing up difficult challenges. With Alisson Becker unavailable and Hugo Ekitike still working towards full fitness, the Dutch manager will need to show flexibility in team selection.

The upcoming fixtures, starting with Chelsea at Anfield, will demand resilience from a Liverpool squad already stretched in key positions. How Slot navigates this period could prove decisive in shaping the early stages of their title defence.