Liverpool rocked by late injury blow as Alisson is ruled out of Galatasaray trip | OneFootball

Liverpool will be without goalkeeper Alisson Becker for their Champions League last-16 first leg against Galatasaray after he was ruled out with an injury concern.

Alisson has not travelled with the Liverpool squad for Tuesday’s knockout clash in Istanbul.

The 33-year-old experienced discomfort during training ahead of the match. Liverpool’s medical staff decided not to risk the goalkeeper for the opening leg of the tie.

The club are taking a cautious approach with one of their most important players.

Alisson has been a key figure for Liverpool this season. He has made 32 appearances across all competitions and kept 12 clean sheets.

The Brazil international experienced injury issues earlier in the campaign.

He missed eight matches after suffering a hamstring injury during the Champions League meeting with Galatasaray in September.

Alisson was also absent from Liverpool’s 4-1 defeat to PSV Eindhoven in the same competition due to illness.

His absence opens the door for Giorgi Mamardashvili to start in goal for Liverpool. Mamardashvili joined the club from Valencia during the summer transfer window.

The Georgian goalkeeper has made eight appearances for Liverpool in all competitions this season.

If selected, the 25-year-old would make his fourth Champions League start for the club. He previously featured against Galatasaray earlier in the season.

Mamardashvili replaced Alisson during the earlier meeting between the sides after he sustained his hamstring injury.

Liverpool have also included two additional goalkeepers in the travelling squad – Freddie Woodman and Kornel Misciur.

Alisson’s absence represents a setback for Liverpool ahead of an important European fixture.

His experience and leadership have been vital during major Champions League nights in recent years.

However, the situation also presents an opportunity for Mamardashvili to demonstrate his quality on a significant stage.

The Georgian will be expected to handle the pressure of a hostile atmosphere if he starts in Istanbul.

Liverpool will hope the injury concern proves minor and that their first-choice goalkeeper can return for the second leg at Anfield.