Incoming Liverpool goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili suffers injury blow

Valencia’s relegation battle has taken a significant blow as first-choice goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili has been ruled out for three weeks due to a rectus femoris injury. The injury, affecting one of the quadriceps muscles responsible for knee extension and hip flexion, has been a source of concern for the club.

Mamardashvili’s absence was confirmed following tests conducted yesterday. Initial fears hinted at the possibility of a prolonged layoff, with speculation that surgery might be required. However, current reports suggest a recovery period of three weeks, during which the Georgian goalkeeper will miss vital LaLiga fixtures against Valladolid, Espanyol, and Alavés—all teams locked in the fight to avoid relegation.

The timing of the injury is a setback for Valencia, who are currently second from bottom in LaLiga with only 10 points from 14 games. Their narrow one-point lead over bottom-placed Valladolid offers little comfort, and Mamardashvili’s unavailability will test the team’s depth in crucial matches.

Valencia manager Rubén Baraja, visibly concerned after their last match, had described the injury as “serious.” However, yesterday’s reassessment played down initial fears of a lengthy absence. Still, the importance of Mamardashvili’s role between the posts cannot be understated, and his absence adds to Valencia’s growing list of challenges this season.

The young Georgian goalkeeper has been a standout performer for Valencia, often keeping them in games with his reflexes and commanding presence. As Valencia scramble to make up ground in the league table, Mamardashvili’s absence will be felt keenly both on the pitch and in the dressing room.

Valencia will now turn to backup options to fill the void, hoping that the defensive line can hold firm in the coming weeks. With high-stakes matches looming, Mamardashvili’s injury serves as a reminder of the uphill battle the club faces to secure their top-flight status.

Fans will hope for a swift recovery as Valencia aim to regain stability and claw their way out of the relegation zone.

Liverpool struck a deal with Valencia in the summer to sign Mamardashvili in a deal worth up to £29m. The 24-year-old will join, subject to a work permit and international clearance, for a fee of £25m plus £4m in add-ons. He is scheduled to make the switch to Anfield for the start of the 2025-26 campaign.