Valencia breathed a sigh of relief when it became clear that their Georgian star would not be heading to the Premier League this season but would remain at Mestalla for another year. However, the inevitable is only being delayed, as Mamardashvili is set to leave the club this summer. He has no plans to sit on the bench next season and is determined to establish himself as a first-choice goalkeeper.
Liverpool finalized an agreement with Valencia to sign Mamardashvili, viewing him as the long-term successor to Alisson Becker. The Spanish club will receive €30 million for the 24-year-old shot-stopper.
Initially, there were expectations that Mamardashvili would leave Liverpool on loan to join Bournemouth for the upcoming season, allowing Alisson to continue as the starter. However, the Georgian goalkeeper decided to remain at Valencia instead of making an immediate switch to English football.
Despite Mamardashvili’s arrival, Alisson’s future at Anfield remains secure for now. The Brazilian goalkeeper is under contract until 2027 and, at 32, continues to perform at an elite level with no signs of decline. Last month, Mamardashvili acknowledged Alisson as the reason he had not already joined Liverpool.
However, reports indicate that the Georgian international expects to be the starting goalkeeper next season. While he respects the experienced shot-stopper, he is determined to compete for the number-one spot as soon as he arrives.
To prepare for his move to Merseyside, Mamardashvili has been taking English lessons and has already explored potential living arrangements in Liverpool. His arrival presents a major decision for Arne Slot and Richard Hughes. Liverpool must decide how to handle the futures of both Alisson and Caoimhin Kelleher.
For the club, this summer could be the final opportunity to secure a significant transfer fee for either goalkeeper without extending their contracts. It remains uncertain whether Liverpool plan to part ways with Alisson. However, if they offer him a contract extension, it could cause frustration for Mamardashvili, who expects to be given a chance to prove himself.
Mamardashvili has experienced a more challenging season at Valencia, as Los Che have struggled defensively compared to the previous campaign. However, he has continued to showcase his talent both at the club level and on the international stage with Georgia. Displacing Alisson as Liverpool’s starting goalkeeper will be no easy task, but Mamardashvili appears determined to make his mark when he arrives at Anfield.
