One question many supporters of Liverpool FC have been asking after the defeat to Galatasaray S.K. is simple: why did Alisson Becker start the FA Cup game against Wolverhampton Wanderers F.C. instead of Giorgi Mamardashvili?
With Liverpool fighting on multiple fronts, it felt like the perfect opportunity to give Mamardashvili valuable game time while also protecting Alisson — a goalkeeper who unfortunately has a long injury record in recent seasons.
Protecting Alisson Should Be a Priority
There is no doubt that Alisson remains one of the best goalkeepers in the world. But his fitness has become an ongoing concern.
Over the past several seasons he has missed significant time through injuries, and managing his workload should be an important part of Liverpool’s planning.
Cup matches like the FA Cup tie against Wolves are often used by clubs to rotate goalkeepers, giving the backup player minutes while allowing the first-choice keeper to rest.
Instead, Alisson started the game — and then picked up an injury that ruled him out of the Champions League trip to Turkey.
A Difficult Situation for Mamardashvili
That injury meant Mamardashvili was suddenly thrown into the starting lineup for one of the most difficult away fixtures in European football.
Playing away to Galatasaray in the UEFA Champions League is always an intense experience, with the atmosphere in Istanbul famous for its hostility and noise.
For a goalkeeper who had barely played recently, it was a huge test.
Credit Where It’s Due
Despite the circumstances, Mamardashvili deserves enormous credit for his performance.
He produced a number of outstanding saves and was widely regarded as Liverpool’s best player on the night, keeping the scoreline respectable despite the struggles of the defence in front of him.
If anything, his display showed that he deserves more opportunities moving forward.
A Lesson for the Future?
Looking back, the decision to start Alisson against Wolves now feels like a missed opportunity.
Mamardashvili could have gained valuable match rhythm, Alisson could have been rested, and Liverpool might have avoided throwing their backup goalkeeper into such a high-pressure game without preparation.
With Alisson’s injury history, managing his minutes carefully could be crucial for the rest of the season.
And if Mamardashvili’s performance in Istanbul proved anything, it’s that Liverpool may have a very capable option ready when called upon.
Jamie (The Kopite View)
The Kopite View 
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