Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson criticised the new Champions League format and believes player welfare is being ignored.
The number of games before the knockout stage has been increased from six to eight and the ‘league phase’ will run until the end of January, whereas the previous group stage concluded in early December. Arne Slot’s side kick off their campaign against AC Milan at San Siro on Tuesday.
Alisson insists too many demands at international and club level are being placed on elite players with such a packed calendar.
“For the supporters, it is amazing. More games, more bigger games,” the Brazilian said.
“For us players, it is always a good idea to add some games to the calendar that is not busy — I am being ironic a little bit!
“Nobody asks the players what they think about adding more games so maybe our opinion does not matter. But everybody knows what we think about having more games.
“Everybody is tired of that. But we have to stay focused on the big challenge we have here.
“A lot has changed from last year, we did not play the Champions League last season and we are all looking forward to being back in it. We are going to do our best to try to win.”
Asked what changes he would like to see made by decision-makers to ease the burden on players, Alisson added: “This is not only a question I should answer. It is a matter to sit down all together and listen to all the parts because we understand we have the media and TV, the side of UEFA and FIFA, Premier League, domestic competitions.
“We are not stupid. We understand that. We understand that people want more games.
“But the reasonable thing would be, all the people I mentioned — those who make the calendar — should sit together and listen to all the parts inclusive of the players.
“I think so many players have spoken already about that. We just need to be listened to. That’s what we would like to do, to sit together and understand what is the thinking of the directions that football wants to go.
“What we want is to give our best. If you are tired you cannot compete at a high level. It does not look like we are close to a good solution for football’s sake and the players’ sake.”
Slot, who celebrates his 46th birthday on Tuesday, confirmed that new signing Federico Chiesa is in contention to make his debut off the bench on his return to his homeland. “He is with us as part of the team selection for the first time,” Slot said.
“It would be a big surprise for him and everyone if he starts tomorrow, but he will make some minutes for the first time if we need him.”
(Gabriel Bouys/AFP via Getty Images)
