Alisson Becker has delivered a heartfelt tribute to Claudio Taffarel, the former Liverpool goalkeeping coach who left an indelible mark on both the Brazilian national team and our very own AXA Training Ground.

Speaking from Brazil's World Cup training base in Basking Ridge, New Jersey, our number one opened up about the profound impact Taffarel has had on his career. The 1994 World Cup winner worked alongside Alisson at Liverpool from 2021 to 2025 under Jurgen Klopp, forging a partnership that clearly runs much deeper than professional duty.

"One of the most vivid memories I have, at six years old, is the semi-final against the Netherlands. My father played a joke when Taffarel saved the penalty. He took a cake and shoved it in his own face. I think that's why it stayed so marked," Alisson revealed, painting a picture of childhood wonder that makes his current relationship with his hero all the more special.

The reverence in Alisson's voice was unmistakable as he continued: "It's a privilege to work with Taffarel, an idol, inspiration and reference for so many Brazilians who wanted to be a goalkeeper. In childhood it was saying: 'Taffareeel...'"

But this isn't just about nostalgia. Alisson credits Taffarel's expertise for helping him sustain his world-class performances over such an extended period. "He sustains us in difficult moments, he has left a legacy beyond what he did as a player. Perhaps people don't see Taffarel's importance as a goalkeeper coach as much. I've been able to maintain a high level for so long because I have a qualified coach like him."

Those words will resonate deeply with Liverpool supporters who witnessed Taffarel's quiet influence during his four-year stint at the club. While the spotlight often falls on outfield coaches and tactical innovations, the Brazilian's work with our goalkeepers clearly left its mark. Alisson's consistency and development during that period speaks volumes about the quality of coaching he received.

The 33-year-old is expected to start in goal for Brazil's World Cup opener against Morocco on Saturday evening, having recovered from the thigh injury that disrupted the final two months of his Premier League campaign. In an earlier interview this week, Alisson admitted to missing some Liverpool matches towards the end of the season to ensure he was fully fit for the tournament.

It's a decision that underlines the weight of expectation on his shoulders. Brazil are among the favourites to claim a record sixth World Cup, alongside European powerhouses France, Spain, England and Portugal. The pressure is immense, but Alisson seems in the right headspace thanks partly to another influential figure.

Current Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti has also earned glowing praise from our goalkeeper, who credits the Italian with transforming the entire atmosphere around the national team setup.

"Since Ancelotti's arrival, the environment has been transformed. He carries a strong presence and gives us the tranquillity of an environment focused on work, without controversy," Alisson explained. "He is resilient, humble, and has intelligence in choosing the right words at the right time. He is a great manager."

The respect for Ancelotti runs deep, with Alisson highlighting the manager's tactical clarity and emotional intelligence. "He has a clear idea of football, which facilitates our style of play. These combinations favour the team. I see his joy and gratitude for being the coach of the Seleção."

Perhaps most tellingly, Alisson recognises the unique pressures that come with managing Brazil. "He's a multi-champion, but he shows it. You can notice it. We also notice it. He has won everything in football and is here with joy and enthusiasm. His position perhaps has more pressure than being the president of the country, in its levels."

For Liverpool supporters, seeing Alisson speak with such warmth about both Taffarel's legacy and his current setup bodes well for our number one's mindset heading into what could be his final World Cup. The foundations laid during his time working with Taffarel at the AXA Training Ground continue to serve him well on football's biggest stage.