Liverpool's Star Keeper Alisson Sidelined: The Real Reason Behind His Galatasaray Absence
Liverpool must navigate the challenging opening leg of their Champions League last-16 clash with Galatasaray without their key shot-stopper Alisson Becker.
The Reds suffered a league phase defeat against these opponents in Istanbul during October, marking just their second loss of the campaign but triggering a difficult period from which the side has yet to fully bounce back.
Alisson has been ruled out due to an injury sustained during Monday's training session and will not travel to the Turkish city that spans both European and Asian continents.
There remains hope that the Brazilian keeper, who has frequently dealt with fitness issues and missed matches in recent campaigns, could return to full fitness before the weekend when Tottenham Hotspur arrive at Anfield for Premier League action. Manager Arne Slot commented before the match: "We don't anticipate it being a major concern."
Liverpool Confirmed XI vs. Galatasaray
Liverpool Confirmed XI vs. Galatasaray
Liverpool starting XI vs. Galatasaray (4-2-3-1): Mamardashvili; Gomez, Van Dijk, Konaté, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Wirtz; Ekitiké.
Subs: Woodman (GK), Misciur (GK), Nallo, Robertson, Frimpong, Jones, Nyoni, Gakpo, Morrison, Ngumolha.
Chance for Mamardashvili to Impress
Chance for Mamardashvili to Impress
Previously, it was Caoimhín Kelleher who filled in for Alisson. However, following the Irish goalkeeper's transfer to Brentford last summer after growing weary of his backup position, Giorgi Mamardashvili now fills the void.
The Georgian international, who established his reputation with Valencia in Spain's top flight and with his country at Euro 2024, has featured in 11 games since joining Liverpool—including the opening portion of the Champions League league phase when Alisson was sidelined with an earlier injury.
Questions remain about Mamardashvili's capabilities, with Arne Slot choosing not to give him playing time in the FA Cup, competitions that typically provide opportunities for backup goalkeepers.
It was during the league phase defeat to Galatasaray that he earned just his second Liverpool appearance, coming on for Alisson early in the second period when the Reds were already trailing.
With an additional goalkeeper spot available on the substitutes' bench, 18-year-old Kornel Misciur receives his first senior squad selection since Liverpool's loss to PSV Eindhoven in November.