Arsenal winger Gabriel Martinelli talks about facing Liverpool star Alisson Becker
Back in the first week of October when Mikel Arteta’s young Arsenal side met Liverpool at The Emirates, one would have expected a close game. It indeed was, with the Gunners getting the better of Jurgen Klopp’s side in a 3-2 win.
Gabriel Martinelli opened the scoring for Arsenal and did so in the first minute of the game itself. Klopp is a huge admirer of the 21-year-old Brazilian and has on one occasion, called the player “a talent of the century”.
However, Martinelli believes that facing one of Liverpool’s stars is a very difficult task and he had it tough to get the better of the player. He spoke very highly of the Reds’ goalie and his national team compatriot, Alisson Becker.
The Arsenal star told Sky Sports about playing against arguably the best keeper in the world and pointed out the fact that due to his monstrous size, Alisson is one of the toughest shot-stoppers to beat for Martinelli.
“He’s so good. When I went to the national team last time, when we played against when we played against Japan and South Korea, I remember when we were in training and I came one-v-one with him and it’s so difficult, he’s so big.”
Back in 2018, the then-25-year-old Brazilian joined Liverpool from AS Roma for a world-record fee of £67m making him the world’s most expensive keeper until Chelsea signed Kepa Arrizzabalaga from Athletic Bilbao for £71.6m.
One of the most important signings in the Jurgen Klopp era, Ali has overseen the recent success of the Reds with his amazing performances between the sticks. In 204 appearances across all competitions for Liverpool, he has 93 clean sheets.
Liverpool’s very own wall
With his almost godly presence in the goal, he has metaphorically and literally established himself as the first name on the teamsheet whenever Liverpool play. Moreover, Ali is part of Brazil’s squad for the FIFA World Cup later this month and would hope to bring glory to his nation.
Apart from his antics between the sticks, he has scored a very important goal for the Reds as well. His goal against West Bromwich Albion in 2020 in what was the last kick of the game was extremely crucial in keeping Liverpool’s Champions League hopes alive back then.
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His performances, mostly going under the radar, have come to the fore this season more than any other time. With the midfield and defence being extremely inconsistent this season, Ali had to be on his toes more than usual and has been brilliant in keeping Liverpool floating in the top half of the Premier League table.
