Alisson Becker Reflects on Love, Loss and the Power of Liverpool | OneFootball

Alisson’s Journey of Grief and Faith at Liverpool

Memory That Lives On

In his piece for The Players’ Tribune, Alisson Becker takes readers on a deeply personal journey — one woven with love, grief, and ultimately, healing.

“I have this vision of my father as a younger man. It is deeper than just a memory. Memories are hazy, you know? This is different. This is colourful. It’s warm. Almost like a dream.” Alisson’s vivid recollections of childhood paint an extraordinary portrait of connection between father and son, a bond that football helped forge.

When tragedy struck during Liverpool’s 2020-21 season, with the sudden loss of his father in Brazil, Alisson found himself oceans away, grappling with unimaginable grief in the midst of a pandemic. “All I remember was I felt so lost. It did not seem possible that someone like my father could actually be gone.”

Liverpool’s Family Spirit

The true spirit of Liverpool shone through in the darkest hours. From flowers delivered by teammates to heartfelt letters from rivals like Pep Guardiola and Carlo Ancelotti, to Jürgen Klopp’s compassionate support — it was clear Alisson was more than just a player; he was family.

“I’ll never forget, Jürgen called me, and I was feeling so guilty about missing training… But Jürgen told me to take as much time as I needed.” It was a profound reminder that football, at its best, is about humanity first.

Alisson’s inability to attend his father’s funeral in person — choosing instead to protect his pregnant wife and children — showcased the resilience and selflessness instilled in him by the man he mourned.

Photo by IMAGO

From Tears to Triumph

Through the weight of grief, football became a source of peace. The defining moment came when Alisson scored an extraordinary goal against West Brom — a header that not only kept Liverpool’s Champions League hopes alive but symbolised something greater.

“I said, ‘Pai… pai…’ It’s for you, Dad!” Alisson looked to the heavens, his celebration drenched in emotion, light piercing the grey English sky.

His faith, a force quietly but deeply embedded in his life, provided him with comfort through unimaginable pain. “Until that day, I know one thing for sure: I never, ever walk alone.”

Future Rooted in Love

Today, echoes of his father’s spirit fill Alisson’s home. His children’s laughter on the family carpet, games of ‘Taffarel saves’ played beneath the living room couch, keep the flame burning brightly. “Every time they come running, every time I lay down on the carpet and guard the goal with my hands, every time I pull my funny clown face, I can feel my father’s presence.”

Alisson’s story is one not just of sporting achievement, but of life’s deeper meaning: memory, faith, family — and the healing power of love.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

As Liverpool supporters, Alisson’s words strike directly at the heart. This is more than just the story of a world-class goalkeeper — it’s the story of a man who wears the Liverbird with a profound sense of pride and vulnerability.

Fans have always seen Alisson’s composure, his grace under pressure, but now, thanks to his candid reflections, we understand the depth of his strength. His choice to prioritise family, even in the face of unimaginable sorrow, reflects exactly what Liverpool Football Club represents: You’ll Never Walk Alone is not just a song; it’s a way of living.

That famous header against West Brom — a moment that brought fans to tears — now carries an even greater significance. It wasn’t simply about Champions League qualification. It was about carrying love and loss on your back, and still finding the strength to rise.

Alisson’s story reminds us all why football matters — not for the trophies or the headlines, but for the community, the shared struggles, and the timeless bonds that tie us together.