Liverpool duo Virgil van Dijk and Alisson missed the club’s two friendlies against Athletic Bilbao at Anfield on Monday afternoon with Arne Slot providing an update on the pair

Liverpool fans got a boost ahead of the Community Shield as Arne Slot confirmed both Virgil van Dijk and Alisson Becker are expected to be ready for Sunday’s clash with Crystal Palace. The two key players were missing during Liverpool’s final pre-season friendlies against Athletic Bilbao, but Slot sounded confident about their return.

Van Dijk missed out due to illness, while Alisson left the Asia tour early for what the club called “private reasons.” That sparked a bit of concern among fans, especially with the Community Shield right around the corner. But Slot made it clear – the captain should be fine, and the Brazilian goalkeeper will also be back.

It turns out Alisson’s absence was due to something very personal. His wife, Natalia, shared an Instagram post explaining that she had undergone surgery and is now recovering well at home. She thanked the medical team and everyone who sent love her way. Alisson being by her side during that time makes total sense, and it’s good to hear she’s doing better.

While the Reds managed without their stars, they still came out strong in both of Monday’s matches at Anfield. Liverpool beat Athletic Club 4-1 in the first game and followed it up with a 3-2 win in the second. The results gave fans something to smile about, especially with the season getting real very soon.

Slot was pretty happy with the performances, though he still wants more sharpness in front of goal. “We scored seven goals over the two games, which is good,” he said. “But we definitely missed a few chances that we should’ve buried.”

Gomez and Bradley remain doubts

The only slightly sour note was on Joe Gomez and Conor Bradley. The duo are still recovering, and their chances of making the Wembley squad are slim. “It’s going to be tight for them,” Slot said when asked. “But Virgil normally not [missing]. And Alisson will be back in time as well.”

That’s huge, because Liverpool will need all the experience they can get at the back against a Palace side that’s not exactly a walk in the park these days.

Monday’s double-header also gave more minutes to some of the younger players and squad depth options, as Slot continues to figure out his strongest XI ahead of the new campaign. Players like Ben Doak, Bobby Clark, and Jarell Quansah all got more time on the pitch.

Eyes on silverware and a big season ahead

The Community Shield might not be the biggest prize of the season, but it’s still a chance to start with a trophy and send a message to the rest of the league. Slot is only just getting started at Liverpool, and a win at Wembley would be a dream way to kick things off.

After the Wembley showdown, attention will quickly shift to the Premier League opener. Liverpool begin their title defense at home against Bournemouth on Friday, August 15. Then it’s a tough away trip to Newcastle, followed by a massive home game against Arsenal before the first international break.

With Van Dijk and Alisson both likely to return, and key players already finding rhythm in pre-season, things are looking positive. Slot’s first real test is just days away – and it seems he’ll have his main men ready for it.

Now, all eyes turn to Wembley.