“I think he’ll stay” – Jan Molby shares verdict on Liverpool star’s future | OneFootball

Liverpool Goalkeeper Debate: Stability, Succession and Summer Decisions

Liverpool’s long term planning under Arne Slot continues to spark debate, especially when it comes to the goalkeeping department. Speaking to Trev Downey on Anfield Index’s Molby on the Spot podcast, Jan Molby offered a measured view of where things stand, and his comments paint a picture of a club that believes its succession plan is already in place.

Mamardashvili Waiting in the Wings

Mamardashvili’s £30m arrival from Valencia last summer was always viewed as a move for both the present and the future. The Georgian has yet to dislodge Alisson Becker as first choice, yet his presence has shifted the conversation around Liverpool’s long term structure. A young goalkeeper rarely joins a club of this size without expectations, and patience only stretches so far when ambition is involved.

Molby framed the situation clearly: “I think that the club are thinking that they have the goalkeeping situation locked down.” That perspective reflects a broader strategy under Slot, where planning ahead seems as important as immediate results. Liverpool appear comfortable allowing Mamardashvili to develop while Alisson maintains the starting role, at least for now.

Alisson Becker’s Contract Context

Alisson Becker remains one of the Premier League’s elite keepers, but contract timelines inevitably influence narratives. With just over a year remaining on his current deal, set to expire in June 2027, speculation about a potential summer exit has surfaced. Molby, however, sounded far from convinced that a departure is imminent.

He explained, “If Alisson was to ask to move on, then I think that the club would respect that decision and do everything that they can to facilitate a move.” That comment hints at mutual respect between player and club, a theme that has defined Liverpool’s handling of senior figures in recent seasons. It also suggests that any change would be driven more by the player’s wishes than by a desire from the club to force a transition.

Squad Evolution Under Arne Slot

Slot’s first full cycle as Liverpool manager has been about refinement rather than revolution. The goalkeeper debate fits neatly into that approach. Continuity matters, especially in a role that shapes defensive organisation and build up play.

Molby added, “The club would be more than happy to see Giorgi Mamardashvili to step up and become the number one goalkeeper.” That statement underlines Liverpool’s confidence in their recruitment, and it aligns with a broader trend at Anfield, identifying successors early and integrating them gradually.

Yet the dynamic is not without tension. Mamardashvili arrived with expectations, and Molby acknowledged that reality by saying, “Mamardashvili won’t be happy if Alisson is still there next season, but I do think that Alisson stays for another year.” It is a delicate balance, one that requires clear communication from the coaching staff and the hierarchy.

Photo: IMAGO

Summer Window Implications

As another busy summer approaches, Liverpool’s decision making in goal will ripple across the wider squad. Stability between the posts can provide the foundation for tactical evolution elsewhere, particularly as Slot continues to shape the team in his own image.

From a strategic standpoint, keeping Alisson for one more season while easing Mamardashvili towards the starting role feels like a logical pathway. It preserves experience, maintains competition, and avoids rushing a transition that could unsettle the dressing room.

Molby’s insight, shared with Trev Downey on Anfield Index’s Molby on the Spot podcast, reflects a club that values foresight and flexibility. Liverpool may face plenty of noise around potential exits and arrivals, yet the goalkeeping situation suggests calm planning rather than reactive change. In a period where marginal gains often decide success, that clarity could prove invaluable.