Liverpool hit with major injury as star player Alisson Becker out ahead of UCL knockout

Liverpool will be without star goalkeeper Alisson Becker for their crucial Champions League clash against Galatasaray this week due to a fitness issue, with summer signing Giorgi Mamardashvili set to start in goal.

Brazilian's absence for the high-stakes match has heightened tension ahead of what many view as a rematch following Liverpool's earlier 1-0 league-phase defeat to the Turkish side in September 2025.

Liverpool hit with major injury as star player out ahead of UCL knockout

According to a report by Fabrizio Romano, he said:

“Alisson will miss Liverpool game vs Galatasaray this week with a fitness issue.”

The development comes at a critical juncture for Arne Slot's team, as Alisson has battled recurring fitness concerns since a hamstring injury sustained during that prior loss at Rams Park, where he was substituted in the 56th minute after a save attempt against Victor Osimhen. That earlier setback sidelined him for several weeks, forcing Mamardashvili, acquired as a long-term successor, into action and exposing vulnerabilities in Liverpool's defensive setup against Galatasaray's potent attack.

Liverpool fans expressed a mix of concern and encouragement for Mamardashvili to seize the opportunity and prove his worth in a high-pressure European tie, while Galatasaray fans celebrated the news, predicting their side could capitalize on the change with bold claims of an easy victory or high-scoring win. The encounter, taking place amid ongoing scrutiny of Alisson's availability, adds extra intrigue to what promises to be a fiercely contested encounter.

ALSO READ: Barcelona president Joan Laporta breaks silence on Xavi’s explosive interview