Alisson Becker Criticizes Fixture Congestion

Alisson Becker, Liverpool goalkeeper has voiced concerns about player workloads. He noted that decision-makers seem to ignore their opinions on fixture congestion. Liverpool will face AC Milan on Tuesday in the Champions League. The new format includes an eight-game league phase and a potential two-legged play-off before reaching the last 16. This new structure adds to the demanding schedule which saw Liverpool play 58 matches across all competitions last season.

If the Reds advance to every final this season, they could play up to 65 matches. This total does not include potential FA Cup replays or Champions League play-off rounds. Alisson, 31, expressed frustration, saying, “Sometimes nobody asks the players what they think about adding more games. Maybe our opinion doesn’t matter, but everybody knows we are tired of it.” He highlighted the poor communication between players and decision-makers including media, TV, UEFA, FIFA and domestic leagues.

This lack of dialogue contributes to the scheduling issues. Alisson believes that all parties including players should collaborate to create a more manageable calendar. Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji humorously suggested that he might need to retire at 30 due to the relentless fixture schedule. Former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp has also long criticized fixture congestion.

Despite a significant injury layoff, Alisson Becker played 42 matches last season and stressed that fatigue impacts performance levels. “If you are tired, you cannot compete at a high level,” he said. “At the moment, it doesn’t look like we are close to a solution.” Liverpool manager Arne Slot commented on the new Champions League format, saying he could only assess its impact at the end of the season.

He appreciates the attractive fixtures but worries about the added strain on players. Slot concluded, “We need to figure out how the two extra games will affect the players, but no one has the answer at the moment.”