The setback came shortly after the restart, when Alisson dived to his left to deny a shot from Victor Osimhen but immediately signalled to the bench that he was hurt. He was replaced by Mamardashvili, who came on as the Georgian prepared to step into the spotlight under unexpected circumstances.

Following the match, manager Arne Slot confirmed the severity of the injury: "He felt something when he was running back. When I see a player on the ground, nine times out of ten, I fear the worst, and unfortunately, the worst is that he can't continue. He will not play on Saturday."

Alisson is not the only injury concern for Liverpool. Hugo Ekitike went down in the 68th minute and was replaced by Alexis Mac Allister, though the club has not yet provided an update on his condition ahead of the Chelsea game.

Mamardashvili has previously only featured in the EFL Cup, starting in the 2-1 win over Southampton. The 25-year-old spent last season on loan at Valencia to gain experience while Alisson maintained his role as Liverpool's undisputed first-choice goalkeeper.

With Alisson's contract running until 2027, the Brazilian has occasionally hinted at a return to Brazil, which would open the door for Mamardashvili to assume the top spot between the sticks.

G. Mamardashvili

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