Liverpool's Champions League clash against Galatasaray ended in a disappointing 1-0 defeat, compounded by significant injury concerns for two key players. Goalkeeper Alisson Becker and striker Hugo Ekitike were both forced off the pitch during the match, leaving manager Arne Slot with a potential selection headache ahead of their upcoming Premier League fixture against Chelsea.
Alisson's injury occurred in the 54th minute while making a save. The Brazilian international dived to his left to block a shot from Galatasaray's Victor Osimhen but immediately signaled to the Liverpool bench, indicating he was in discomfort. He was subsequently replaced by Giorgi Mamardashvili. The nature of Alisson's injury wasn't immediately clear, but Slot confirmed that Alisson would not be available for the Chelsea game. Alisson has a history of injuries, having missed 10 Premier League games last season due to a thigh injury, a hamstring problem and a concussion.
Adding to Liverpool's woes, Hugo Ekitike also suffered an injury shortly after Alisson's substitution. The young striker appeared to pull a muscle after stretching for the ball and was replaced by Alexis Mac Allister. Ekitike limped off the field, visibly distressed.
The injuries to Alisson and Ekitike further compounded a disappointing night for Liverpool, who struggled to find their rhythm against a determined Galatasaray side. Osimhen's first-half penalty ultimately decided the match, leaving Liverpool with their first defeat in a group stage game since November 2020.
Speaking after the game, Slot expressed his disappointment with the result and confirmed Alisson's absence for the Chelsea match. Mamardashvili is now set to deputize in goal against the Blues. Slot said that it is never positive when a player has to come off injured and that he was sure Alisson would not be able to play on Saturday.
The defeat and the injuries mark a difficult week for Liverpool, who also lost their previous Premier League game against Crystal Palace. Slot will be hoping that the injuries to Alisson and Ekitike are not too serious and that his team can bounce back quickly from this setback. Liverpool has lost five of their last eight away games in all competitions.
