Why isn’t Alisson playing for Liverpool against Galatasaray? Who replaces him?

A physical issue has ruled Alisson Becker out of Liverpool’s trip to face Galatasaray, opening the door for Giorgi Mamardashvili to return to the starting lineup. The Georgian has not worn Liverpool’s gloves in a game since late November and usually serves as the Brazilian’s backup

Signed for $32.7 million (€30 million), the former Valencia goalkeeper has struggled to make a positive impression in the Premier League. Another injury to Alisson gave him his first real opportunity in late October and early November – a stretch that coincided with Liverpool’s worst run of results this season.

The team’s only two defeats in the Champions League and a four-game losing streak in the English league came with the Georgian between the posts. Even so, Mamardashvili has always been a goalkeeper who thrives on challenges, and the first leg of the Champions League round of 16 presents exactly that kind of moment.

Liverpool’s visit to Istanbul could prove a tricky assignment for Arne Slot’s side. During the group stage they already fell on Turkish soil, where a lone Victor Osimhen goal was enough to bring the Reds down.

The Nigerian striker remains the main threat for Galatasaray, but he is not the only one. Noa Lang has been in excellent form since arriving at the club and adds another layer of danger for the home side.

For Liverpool, the Champions League has become something of a lifeline. After an uneven start to the campaign, the European stage now offers hope for players such as Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitiké and Mohamed Salah as they attempt to salvage the season.

Match details and possible starting lineups:

Galatasaray: Çakır; Sallai, Sánchez, Abdülkerim Bardakçı, Jakobs; Torreira, Lemina; Yılmaz, Gabriel Sara, Lang; Osimhen.

Liverpool: Mamardashvili; Frimpong, Konaté, Van Dijk, Kerkez; Gravenberch, Mac Allister; Salah, Szoboszlai, Wirtz; Ekitiké.

Referee: Gil Manzano (Spain).Stadium: Rams Park, Istanbul.

Kickoff: 13:45 p.m. ET.

Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that on this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.

And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.