Liverpool’s Loris Karius has suggested there are no “outstanding goalkeepers” as he discussed challenging Alisson for No.1 spot ahead of his Anfield return.
Karius has been on loan at Besiktas for the last two years, but will be back at the club next campaign, where he hopes to challenge Alisson for the No.1 spot.
The German had been the Reds’ first choice goalkeeper prior to dropping two clangers in Liverpool’s Champions League defeat by Spanish side Real Madrid in 2018.
Liverpool then signed Alisson for £67m as Karius’ replacement, and the Brazilian goalie has already established himself as one of the club’s key players.
But Karius is hopeful he can fight for his place in the team next season, and has suggested Alisson is not “outstanding” in the same way Manuel Neuer was a few years ago.
“At the moment there is probably not one outstanding goalkeeper who is above everyone else, as maybe a few years ago with Manuel Neuer,” Karius told Transfermarkt.
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“Neuer is performing well. Marc-Andre ter Stegen delivers great performances in Barcelona. There is also a Jan Oblak at Atletico Madrid. Alisson did a great job last year and won the biggest trophy. It’s hard to commit to a candidate.”
On staying at Liverpool and fighting for his place rather than leaving the club, the German added: “Of course I have to be playing if I actually change clubs.
“It makes no sense to say I’m leaving Liverpool for a worse club and I’m only number two there. But I’m not in a pressure situation at all, I don’t have to change.
“I can accelerate in training at Liverpool. As the second-choice goalkeeper in England you know that you get your chances.
“I am currently at the best club in the world, who are competing for trophies, and I have the highest level around me every day in training. I am fully aware that I am in a good position to be in Liverpool. I have great conditions there.
“I want to stay healthy and play at a high level for as long as possible. Of course, as a footballer, I want to win one or two trophies. I want to get the best possible performance out of myself.
“It is the same with Liverpool, where I am the challenger. When I am asked, I am there to perform and help the team. No matter whether as No. 1 or No. 2, I will always do my best.”
