Frank Christian
Giorgi Mamardashvili, Liverpool’s latest goalkeeper recruit, has made his intentions clear regarding his role at the club, stating he won’t be simply warming the bench behind Alisson Becker.
The 24-year-old Georgian international is determined to compete for the starting goalkeeper position next season, indicating a fierce rivalry for playing time.
Statements from Giorgi Mamardashvili
Liverpool caught many off guard with their £25 million ($32.5m) signing of Mamardashvili from Valencia this summer, which included a deal that allows him to stay on loan at Valencia for the entire 2024/25 season.
While awaiting his move to Anfield next summer, Mamardashvili has already expressed his ambitions.
“I was drawn to the Liverpool project during my discussions with the club,” Mamardashvili said in an interview with First Channel in Georgia. “I will strive for the first-choice goalkeeper role, regardless of whether the current goalkeeper stays.”
Giorgi Mamardashvili:
“I was attracted by Liverpool’s project when the club’s representatives met me to sign me. I will fight for the starting goalkeeper position even if the current goalkeeper does not leave the team.” pic.twitter.com/1R2EMfpdDi
— DaveOCKOP (@DaveOCKOP) October 16, 2024
Mamardashvili’s self-assurance is commendable, particularly as he will be competing against Alisson, who is often regarded as one of the best goalkeepers globally. Since joining in 2018, Alisson has been essential to Liverpool’s achievements with his reliable performance and impressive shot-stopping skills.
Changing Dynamics with Kelleher and Alisson’s Future
With Mamardashvili aiming for the starting position, current backup goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher has expressed a wish to leave Liverpool to play more regularly. Should Kelleher depart, this could facilitate Mamardashvili’s position as the main reserve — unless he manages to secure a starting role himself.
Additionally, the future of Alisson remains uncertain. The 32-year-old has been rumored to be considering a move to Saudi Arabia due to attractive offers that could entice him and Liverpool.
No official proposals have surfaced yet, but Mamardashvili’s arrival may hint at a potential change in Liverpool’s strategy for goalkeeping moving forward.
His performance statistics further underscore his confidence. Last season, he achieved a save percentage marginally higher than Alisson’s (73.8% compared to 73.4%) and had a better post-shot expected goals metric.
Nevertheless, his passing accuracy of 53% indicates an area for growth, especially in a club like Liverpool where building from the back is critical.
Next season promises to be an exciting contest between two elite goalkeepers. Will Alisson maintain his position, or could Mamardashvili stage a remarkable challenge?
