Liverpool's Alisson Out, Mamardashvili Steps In for Chelsea Clash
Liverpool face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge this weekend, with a significant change in goal. Alisson Becker, Liverpool's first-choice goalkeeper, will miss the game due to injury, sustained during the UEFA Champions League loss to Galatasaray. Manager Arne Slot has confirmed that backup goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili will step in.
Alisson's injury is a blow to Liverpool, who have previously found success with backup goalkeepers against Chelsea. Caoimhin Kelleher notably kept a clean sheet in a 1-0 win at Anfield in 2021. Mamardashvili, a Georgian international, joined Liverpool from Valencia in the summer and has been regular in the previous season. Although he hasn't faced Chelsea specifically, his experience in goal could prove crucial.
Liverpool come into this game on the back of two consecutive losses, a rare occurrence under Slot. They lost 2-1 to Arsenal in the league, with Eddie Nketiah scoring a late winner, and 1-0 to Galatasaray in the Champions League, thanks to a Victor Osimhen penalty. Despite these setbacks, Liverpool remain top of the Premier League, with Arsenal hot on their heels in second place.
With Alisson out, all eyes will be on Mamardashvili. Liverpool will be hoping he can replicate Kelleher's heroics and help them secure a vital win against Chelsea. Despite their recent losses, Liverpool's position at the top of the league shows their resilience, and a win at Stamford Bridge could further cement their title credentials.
