Georgi Mamardashvili joined Liverpool in the summer transfer window but was immediately loaned out to Valencia - and claimed Alisson's red-hot run of form was the reason he did not join the club this year
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Giorgi Mamardashvili.
Giorgi Mamardashvili wants to become Liverpool's newest star
(Image: Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
New Liverpool signing Giorgi Mamardashvili might have to face up to the reality of warming the bench next season, Alisson Becker continues to impress between the sticks. Alisson has been in stellar form this year, notably saving 10 shots during Liverpool's nail-biting 1-0 victory against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday, earning him the player of the match award.
He also boasts eight clean sheets from 20 Premier League games, placing him fourth in the race for the Golden Glove. Liverpool are in a commanding 13-point lead in the Premier League, alongside a Carabao Cup final in sight and a Champions League quarter-final position nearly secured.
With the brilliance of Alisson and second-choice Caoimhin Kelleher, questions have been raised about where new signing Mamardashvili will fit when he returns from his loan spell at Valencia. The Georgian keeper signed a deal worth £25million last summer but was loaned back to his former club Valencia immediately.
Speaking to El Desmarque, Mamardashvili was clear about his future plans for Anfield. He said: "I was attracted by Liverpool's project when the club's representatives met me to sign me. I will fight for the starting goalkeeper position, even if the current goalkeeper does not leave the team."
Mamardashvili has also admitted that he hesitated to join Liverpool initially, naming Alisson as a key factor. In the wake of a devastating 7-1 defeat to Barcelona earlier this year, Mamardashvili spoke with Ferran Torres about his decision.
Torres asked the 'keeper: "Why didn't you leave this year?" Mamardashvili simply answered: "Alisson."
Giorgi Mamardashvili.
Giorgi Mamardashvili is planning to become Liverpool's new number one
His caution regarding the Brazilian shot-stopper seems justified, given Alisson shows no signs of letting up. His existing contract ensures his stay at Anfield until the summer of 2027 and he will be a key part of the team leading up to the end of the season.
Mamardashvili, who signed for the Reds on a multi-year deal, has signalled his intention to fight for the no.1 spot at Anfield. But if Alisson continues to deliver performances like that one against PSG on Wednesday night, the Georgian may struggle to knock the Brazilian from his perch in the immediate term, at least.