Liverpool FC have been dealt a significant injury setback after goalkeeper Alisson Becker was ruled out of their UEFA Champions League clash with Galatasaray SK. The Brazilian keeper did not travel to Istanbul with Arne Slot’s squad for the round-of-16 first leg after picking up an issue during training on Monday.
According to Paul Joyce of The Times, the problem emerged during the team’s final training session before departure. Joyce reported that Alisson will miss Liverpool’s Champions League meeting with Galatasaray after experiencing discomfort following Monday’s workout.
Although the injury is believed to be minor, the club’s medical staff decided to keep the 33-year-old on Merseyside as a precaution. Even so, the timing is far from ideal for Slot, given Alisson’s crucial role in Liverpool’s European away matches.
Mamardashvili set to replace Alisson
The report also states that Alisson remained in England, leaving Giorgi Mamardashvili in line to start in goal. The Georgian international, who joined the club in the summer of 2025, is expected to make his first appearance since the FA Cup win over Barnsley FC two months ago.
Mamardashvili is already familiar with the atmosphere at RAMS Park, having come on as a substitute during Liverpool’s 1–0 defeat there in September. With 11 appearances this season, the 25-year-old will now be responsible for helping the team secure a positive result to take back to Anfield.
Injury concerns continue for Alisson
This latest issue adds to a frustrating run of injuries for Alisson. Despite being widely regarded as one of the world’s top goalkeepers, his fitness record has raised concerns in recent seasons.
The Brazilian has already missed nine matches in all competitions this campaign, including a lengthy spell late in 2025 due to a hamstring problem. Since 2019, he has also dealt with several muscle, hip and calf injuries that have forced Liverpool to rely on backup goalkeepers more often than expected.
While the club’s move for Mamardashvili was partly aimed at securing long-term stability in the position, the increasing need to call upon the deputy has sparked fresh discussion about Alisson’s long-term reliability at the club. ⚽
