Alisson Becker has revealed how the influence of Pep Guardiola's Barcelona set him along the road to Liverpool and the Champions League final.
Alisson will aim to ensure a silver lining to an impressive first season at Anfield when the Reds take on Tottenham Hotspur in the showpiece occasion in Madrid on June 1.
The Brazil international claimed the Premier League Golden Gloves award after keeping 21 clean sheets in the top flight to help the Reds finish second on a club record 97 points.
Alisson made a £65million move from Roma last summer having started his career with Internacional in Brazil.
And it was in his homeland that he fostered the playing style that has made him a key member of Jurgen Klopp's side.
"I love what I do, so I'll always have the football in my hands," said Alisson. "When I started school I played as a holding midfielder, then I went in goal which is where I felt more comfortable.
"I had a coach called Andre Jardim, who was influenced by Guardiola at Barcelona.
"Barcelona always played short and fast balls out from the keeper. At that time it was Victor Valdes.
"He liked to play with his feet a lot and so do I, because I always want to play a real part in the game."
Liverpool ended Alisson's hopes of a Champions League final last season when they beat Roma in the semi-finals.
And the goalkeeper admits he has already fallen in love with the competition.
"Of course, we wanted more, we wanted to reach the final, but we were up against a strong Liverpool side," said Alisson to UEFA.
"Now I'm on the other side and I've reached the final after another great comeback against Barcelona.
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"I'm already very appreciative to be able to play in the final. Whenever I go out on the pitch and hear the Champions League anthem, it gives me goosebumps every time I hear it.
"So when I get to the final, I'll be doing what I love and I'm very grateful for that."
