Liverpool supporters know how important Alisson Becker is, but one statistic from this Premier League season is a reminder of just how much he brings to Andoni Iraola’s side.
A remarkable 61.5% of Alisson’s saves have resulted in no rebound, the best rate among Premier League goalkeepers this season. The positional average is just 34.92%.
That is a significant difference, and it highlights an aspect of goalkeeping that can easily be overlooked when people judge players simply by their save percentage or the number of clean sheets they keep.
For me, Alisson remains one of Liverpool’s most important players, and this statistic helps explain why.
Alisson Does More Than Just Stop Shots
Making a save is one thing. Making sure the ball does not fall straight back into danger is another.
When a goalkeeper parries a shot into the penalty area, the opposition can react quickly and turn one opportunity into another. Defenders are forced to scramble, attackers can pounce on the rebound, and a situation that should have been dealt with can suddenly become a goal.
Alisson’s ability to deal with shots cleanly helps Liverpool avoid that danger.
Whether he holds the ball or directs it safely away from an opponent, he can bring an end to an attack rather than giving the opposition another opportunity.
The figures speak for themselves. His 61.5% rate is well above the 34.92% positional average, underlining how effective he has been at preventing rebounds.
It is the sort of detail that separates a good goalkeeper from one who can make a real difference to a team.
Why This Matters So Much for Liverpool
Liverpool are building a more solid defensive structure under Iraola, and the recent 2-0 victory over Brighton was an encouraging example.
Ronald Araújo was outstanding, Jérémy Jacquet continued to impress alongside Virgil van Dijk, and the team defended resolutely when Brighton pushed forward after the break.
But defensive improvement is not just about the four players in front of the goalkeeper.
Alisson is the final line of defence, and his decision-making can determine whether an attack ends with a save or develops into another dangerous moment.
Liverpool will not prevent every shot. Even the best defensive sides concede opportunities, particularly against teams with quality in the final third.
The important thing is what happens when those opportunities arrive.
Alisson has shown that he can make the initial save and, crucially, reduce the chances of a rebound causing further problems. That gives his defenders greater confidence and helps the whole team stay organised.
As Iraola continues to build his Liverpool side, having a goalkeeper who can provide that level of reliability is a huge advantage.
Giorgi Mamardashvili Is the Future, But Alisson Is Still Vital
Liverpool have already brought Giorgi Mamardashvili into the squad, giving the club an option for the future in goal.
That is sensible planning. No club can ignore succession, and Liverpool need to ensure they are prepared for the day Alisson eventually moves on.
However, having a potential successor does not mean the Brazilian’s importance should be underestimated.
Alisson has the experience, composure and quality that Liverpool need during a period of transition. He has played at the highest level, understands the demands of the club and has repeatedly demonstrated why he is trusted between the posts.
Mamardashvili may have a major role to play in the years ahead, but Alisson’s current performances show why replacing him will be such a difficult task.
Liverpool should be planning for the future without taking what they have in the present for granted.
Liverpool Must Appreciate What They Have
I sometimes think goalkeepers receive less credit than outfield players because their best work can look deceptively simple.
A striker scores a goal and gets the headlines. A midfielder produces an assist and receives the praise. A defender makes a last-ditch tackle and wins the applause.
Yet a goalkeeper can prevent a goal with one perfectly judged intervention, and supporters might barely think about it again.
Alisson’s rebound statistic is a reminder that goalkeeping is about much more than spectacular saves. Positioning, handling, decision-making and controlling the ball all matter.
His figures are particularly impressive because they highlight how effectively he deals with the danger after a shot is stopped.
That is the sort of quality Liverpool cannot easily replace.
My Verdict: Liverpool Should Do Everything They Can to Keep Alisson
At 34, Alisson is no longer a young goalkeeper, and Liverpool have to consider the long-term future of the position.
But I do not believe that should distract from what he can still offer right now.
A 61.5% no-rebound rate, compared with a Premier League goalkeeper average of 34.92%, is a remarkable statistic. It demonstrates how effectively he can prevent one save from turning into another dangerous opportunity.
With Liverpool working to become more defensively reliable under Iraola, having Alisson behind that improving back line is invaluable.
There will come a time when Liverpool have to move on, but I would not rush that process. Mamardashvili can develop and prepare for his opportunity while Alisson continues to perform at an exceptional level.
For me, the message is simple: appreciate him while he is here.
Alisson Becker is not just stopping shots for Liverpool. He is helping stop attacks dead in their tracks, and that is another reason he remains one of the most valuable players at Anfield.
Jamie – (The Kopite View)
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