Arne Slot confirms significant Liverpool injury setback before Manchester United showdown

Liverpool will be forced into a key change for Sunday’s clash with Manchester United after Arne Slot confirmed that Alisson Becker will miss the game at Anfield.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference at the AXA Training Centre, Slot provided updates on three important players — Ryan Gravenberch, Ibrahima Konaté, and Alisson — ahead of the 4:30pm kickoff.

“Ryan is fully fit, though we still have two training sessions to go. If you ask me now, he’s ready,” said the Liverpool boss. “Ibou has returned to training and is expected to work with the team today. The third one is Alisson — he’s not training with us, so he’s unavailable.”

The news brings a double boost for Liverpool’s midfield and defence but a major setback in goal. Slot also confirmed that Alisson will miss not just this weekend’s fixture but next week’s as well.

With the Brazilian ruled out, Giorgi Mamardashvili will continue in goal after joining from Valencia this summer and impressing in his early outings.

Gravenberch’s return is a timely lift after fitness doubts during international duty, while Konaté’s recovery adds strength to the backline, especially against a Manchester United side likely to target Liverpool’s flanks.

Despite Alisson’s absence, the Reds remain in a strong position. Under Slot, depth and adaptability have been central themes, and Sunday’s showdown will once again test those qualities as Liverpool aim to maintain their Premier League title defence.