Liverpool star set to return for Nottingham Forest clash | OneFootball

Slot Faces Key Goalkeeper Decision Ahead of Nottingham Forest Clash

Liverpool’s Premier League campaign resumes this weekend with an intriguing dilemma for Arne Slot — whether to restore Alisson Becker to his starting lineup or continue with summer signing Giorgi Mamardashvili. After a turbulent few weeks, the Dutchman faces a critical call that could influence Liverpool’s immediate fortunes.

Slot’s Balancing Act Between Loyalty and Form

Having spent nearly £450 million in the summer, Slot now faces the challenge of finding balance within a star-studded squad. Among those brought in under sporting director Richard Hughes were Giorgi Mamardashvili, Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz — headline arrivals in what was widely seen as a transformative window.

Initially, the Georgian international was expected to serve as backup to Alisson, but an injury to Liverpool’s established No.1 opened the door for the 25-year-old to step into the limelight. Signed from Valencia for a fee rising to £29 million, Mamardashvili has displayed moments of quality, though his time between the posts has been marked by mixed results.

Mamardashvili’s Opportunity and Its Challenges

In Alisson’s absence, Mamardashvili has endured a testing spell. While his composure and agility have stood out at times, Liverpool’s defensive instability has often exposed him. He has conceded ten goals in his last four league appearances, with his only clean sheet coming in a 2-0 victory over Aston Villa earlier this month.

The Georgian remains highly regarded within the club for his work ethic and technical improvement, but results speak louder than potential. Liverpool have suffered seven defeats in their last ten matches across all competitions, leaving Slot under pressure to re-establish consistency and defensive resilience.

Alisson Nears Return at Crucial Moment

Reports from the club’s training ground indicate that Alisson is expected to return to full training this week following the muscle injury sustained against Galatasaray in the Champions League. Should the Brazilian come through those sessions unscathed, he is likely to reclaim his spot in goal when Liverpool face Nottingham Forest.

The 33-year-old’s leadership, reflexes and calm distribution remain invaluable assets to Slot’s system. His influence on and off the pitch has long been central to Liverpool’s success, and his absence has been felt both defensively and in terms of overall confidence throughout the squad.

Future Implications for Liverpool’s Goalkeeping Setup

Alisson’s contract runs until 2027, though he has previously expressed a desire to return to his boyhood club Internacional before retirement. That long-term ambition could eventually open the door for Mamardashvili to take over as Liverpool’s first-choice goalkeeper. For now, however, the hierarchy remains clear — Alisson is expected to resume his role as Slot’s trusted No.1.

The situation encapsulates the broader challenge facing Slot this season: integrating elite signings while maintaining the chemistry and discipline that delivered last year’s title. A decision on his goalkeeper will be a microcosm of that wider balancing act — managing ambition, form and stability in a side still searching for rhythm after a heavy summer of change.