Liverpool boss Arne Slot quashes key player availability fears after personal issue and Anfield absence

Liverpool begins their 2025/26 campaign early with an FA Community Shield match against Crystal Palace at Wembley Stadium this Sunday. The Reds, who have won the shield 16 times previously, face Palace—whose only major trophy remains last season's FA Cup victory—in a season-opening showcase.

Concerns arose among supporters as key players missed recent friendlies. Virgil van Dijk sat out Monday's double-header against Athletic Club due to illness, while coach Arne Slot indicated defensive duo Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez face "tight" availability decisions for upcoming fixtures.

Slot provided reassurance regarding goalkeeper Alisson Becker, who cut short Liverpool's pre-season tour after his wife underwent surgery. Following a social media update confirming her recovery, Slot confirmed Alisson will return in time for both the Community Shield clash and Liverpool's Premier League opener against Bournemouth.