By Tomisola Adesanya
Brazilian goalkeeper Alisson Becker has built a career on safe hands, catlike reflexes, and a steady heart not just for Liverpool Football Club, but for his faith in Jesus Christ.
Born on October 2, 1992, Becker has established himself as one of the finest goalkeepers of his generation.
Beyond his exploits on the pitch, he’s become known for his outspoken devotion to his Christian faith.
In 2019, Becker was named Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper and lifted the UEFA Champions League trophy with Liverpool. In an interview reflecting on his pre-match routine, he explained:
“The only thing I do is point to the sky. I’m a Christian, so I’m not superstitious. If you want to be great, you need to work hard. That’s what I do. You have to stay focused, and for me, faith is a big part of that. You do your best, and put love into everything you do in life.”
His steadfast commitment has even earned him the nickname ‘Holy Goalie’, courtesy of teammate Virgil van Dijk.
As a devout Pentecostal, Allison has often spoken about his desire to enter ministry after his playing career.
He’s also taken an active role in sharing his faith. In 2020, Becker baptized Manchester United’s Fred Rodrigues in a private pool ceremony accompanied by a gospel singer.
Before that, he performed the same rite for fellow Brazilian and Liverpool teammate Roberto Firmino, in an emotional moment that left both players visibly moved. Firmino later wrote on Instagram: “I gave You my failures. The victories, I will give You too. My greatest title is Your love, Jesus.”
Becker frequently makes public declarations of his faith. After Liverpool’s 2–0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in the 2019 Champions League final, he celebrated wearing a t-shirt boldly inscribed with “Cross = Love.”
In the 2020/21 Premier League season, Becker made history, becoming the first goalkeeper to score a headed goal in the league’s history. His 95th-minute winner against West Brom kept Liverpool’s Champions League hopes alive. Speaking after the match, he said:
“You can’t explain a lot of things in life. For me, the only reason for those kinds of moments is God. He put His hand on my head today. I feel really blessed.”
While often described as religious, Becker offered his own clarification in a conversation with Brazilian newspaper Folha de S.Paulo:
“I’m not religious. I’m a follower of Christ. Religion is often tied to traditions that have clouded the true message of Christianity. Jesus is far greater than religion.”
Throughout his career, Alisson Becker has remained a player whose excellence on the pitch is matched by his spiritual conviction. In a world where athletes are often known for their off the pitch drama, Becker stands out for his character and clear sense of purpose.