After a historic league-winning 2024/25 season, Arne Slot’s Liverpool returned to the pitch this week for pre-season preparations, taking on Preston North End in a friendly fixture.
While much of the evening was rightly dedicated to honouring the memory of Jota and his brother André, both of whom tragically passed away in a car accident in Spain, the game also offered fans a glimpse into Liverpool’s future.
One of the most notable appearances was that of Giorgi Mamardashvili, who made his unofficial debut for the Reds following his summer switch from Valencia.
The Georgian international, signed last year but officially unveiled this summer, was handed a start in goal in what turned out to be a composed and promising first showing.
Mamardashvili almost made an instant impression that would’ve had Kopites talking for weeks. In a moment reminiscent of Alisson Becker’s well-documented assists to Mohamed Salah in high-profile matches, the 23-year-old launched a pinpoint pass from deep inside his own box that found Federico Chiesa near the halfway line.
Chiesa showed quick feet to spin away from his marker and charged toward the goal. While the move ended with a blocked shot and a wayward follow-up, the precision and vision behind Mamardashvili’s pass drew immediate comparisons to the creative distribution that has defined Alisson’s time at Anfield.
Had the Italian winger converted the chance, it would have marked a dream start for the new goalkeeper, registering an assist in his very first outing. Still, the moment stood out as a sign of things to come.
With Caoimhin Kelleher having moved on in search of regular first-team football, the question of who could provide reliable cover, and potentially challenge Alisson, has loomed large. On early evidence, Mamardashvili may just be the answer. His height, confidence with the ball at his feet, and vision for long-range passes give Slot a new option that aligns with the club’s evolving style under the Dutchman.
While it’s too early to draw definitive conclusions from a single pre-season outing, Liverpool fans can be cautiously optimistic.
