Alisson Becker will miss Liverpool’s Champions League last-16 first leg against Galatasaray after suffering discomfort during training.
The Brazilian goalkeeper, widely regarded as one of the leading shot-stoppers in world football, was absent from Liverpool’s 21-man travelling squad for the trip to Istanbul, dealing a significant blow to manager Arne Slot ahead of the European tie.
Injury setback after training session
Alisson took part in Monday’s training session but reported discomfort afterward, prompting the club to withdraw him from selection rather than risk aggravating the issue.
The 31-year-old has been a key figure for Liverpool this season, making 32 appearances in all competitions and starting in Friday’s 3-1 FA Cup victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Slot will also be without winger Federico Chiesa, who missed the same training session and did not travel with the squad.
Mamardashvili set for major opportunity
In Alisson’s absence, Giorgi Mamardashvili is expected to start in goal for the biggest European match of his Liverpool career so far.
The Georgia international joined from Valencia in a £25 million transfer and has already made 11 appearances this season during previous injury spells affecting Alisson.
One of those outings came earlier in the competition when Mamardashvili replaced Alisson in Istanbul during a narrow 1-0 defeat to Galatasaray in the league phase.
Galatasaray boosted after Juventus victory
Galatasaray head into the tie with more confidence following their playoff triumph over Juventus.
However, the Turkish side will be without their travelling supporters for the return leg at Anfield after UEFA’s Appeals Body imposed a ticket ban following fan misconduct in Italy.
The first leg in Istanbul is still expected to produce a hostile atmosphere, with manager Okan Buruk aiming to replicate his side’s earlier 1-0 win over Liverpool in the competition.
Squad depth tested
Liverpool’s travelling squad combines senior players and emerging academy talent, though Alisson’s absence leaves Mamardashvili as the only experienced option in goal.
Third-choice goalkeeper Freddie Woodman will provide cover from the bench, while young prospects including Rio Ngumoha and Trey Nyoni have also been included in the squad.