Alisson on Taffarel: ‘A privilege’, and a 3rd World Cup honour
Brazil national team goalkeeper Alisson described what it feels like to work with four-time world champion and Seleção goalkeeping coordinator Taffarel. Speaking at a press conference this Thursday (11) at The Ridge hotel in New Jersey, United States, Alisson said it is “a privil
Brazil national team goalkeeper Alisson described what it feels like to work with four-time world champion and Seleção goalkeeping coordinator Taffarel. Speaking at a press conference this Thursday (11) at The Ridge hotel in New Jersey, United States, Alisson said it is “a privilege” to play alongside one of Brazil’s idols.
“It is a privilege to be able to work with Taffarel. He has always been an idol, an inspiration, a role model, not only for me, but for so many Brazilians who wanted to be goalkeepers. He has been an extremely important person for me, like a mentor and someone who keeps me grounded in the right measure, and, in difficult and sad moments, he is someone who is there supporting us,” said the Liverpool goalkeeper.
The keeper also commented on what it feels like to have been called up for his third World Cup wearing the Brazil national team shirt, matching the mark of great names in Seleção history, such as Taffarel and Gilmar Neves, among others.
Alisson during a Brazil national team press conference in New Jersey Credits: Nelson Terme/CBF
“If I had to use one word to define this feeling, it would be honor. To be mentioned alongside these great names in the history of the Brazil national team. It is also a privilege to be able to take part in and compete in another World Cup. When I watched as a child, I dreamed of being here, but it was a very distant reality. Today, when I stop to think about it, it is a privilege and a blessing to have the opportunity to play in a World Cup wearing the shirt of the greatest national team,” said the number 1.
The player also spoke about the transformation in the national team environment brought about by Carlo Ancelotti’s arrival. Under the Italian coach, the keeper has played in six matches and has remained a key figure.
“With Ancelotti’s arrival, the environment has been transformed. He is someone who carries a very strong presence and gives us the calm of an environment focused on work and not focused on controversies and other issues,” Alisson concluded.
Alisson during a Brazil national team press conference in New Jersey Credits: Nelson Terme/CBF
