Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker has been ruled out of the first leg of the UEFA Champions League round-of-16 clash against Galatasaray due to a minor injury concern. However, there is optimism that the Brazilian international could recover in time for Liverpool’s Premier League match against Tottenham Hotspur this weekend.
Injury sustained before Istanbul trip
The 33-year-old goalkeeper picked up the injury during a training session shortly before the squad departed for Turkey. Liverpool manager Arne Slot confirmed that Alisson Becker felt some discomfort late in the session, prompting medical staff to assess the situation immediately.
After consultations between the player, the coaching staff, and the club’s medical team, the decision was made that it would be safer for Alisson to remain in England rather than travel with the team to Istanbul for the match at RAMS Park.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Slot explained the reasoning behind the decision.
“Ali, of course, was in the session as many people could see, but unfortunately he felt something towards the end of the session,” Slot said.
“People looked at it and we decided, and he decided together, that it wasn’t good enough to play tomorrow. And then it’s of no use travelling.”
Chance of return against Tottenham
Despite missing the European fixture, Slot expressed optimism that the injury is not serious and that Alisson could be back in action soon. Liverpool are scheduled to face Tottenham at Anfield in the Premier League on Sunday, and the manager suggested the goalkeeper still has a chance of being fit for that game.
“There’s definitely a chance, yes, because we don’t expect it to be a big thing,” Slot added.
“But it was too much to be available for tomorrow.”
Mamardashvili set to step in
With Alisson unavailable, Giorgi Mamardashvili is expected to start in goal for Liverpool against Galatasaray. The Georgian goalkeeper could make his first appearance since the FA Cup victory over Barnsley F.C. on 12 January.
Mamardashvili has already played 11 matches in all competitions for Liverpool F.C. this season and will likely be relied upon to provide stability in a crucial Champions League knockout tie.
Additional squad setback
Liverpool are also missing Federico Chiesa, who did not travel with the squad due to illness. The Italian forward has been struggling with health issues and will remain in England to recover.
Season injury record
Alisson has already missed nine matches this season through injury, making his latest setback another concern for Liverpool as they navigate a demanding schedule that includes domestic and European competitions.
Crucial Champions League tie
The match against Galatasaray represents an important test for Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League knockout stage, with the Turkish side expected to create a hostile atmosphere in Istanbul. Even without their first-choice goalkeeper, Liverpool will aim to secure a positive result before the return leg at Anfield.
If Alisson recovers quickly, his return for the Tottenham clash could provide a major boost for Slot’s side as they continue their push in the Premier League and Europe.
