Former Liverpool and England goalkeeper David James has issued a strong warning to Liverpool's current goalkeeper Alisson Becker ahead of the 2025-26 Premier League season. James highlighted Liverpool's recent signing of Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia as a sign that the club is looking to create genuine competition for the goalkeeper position rather than merely adding depth.

According to James, Liverpool’s acquisition of Mamardashvili was not just to fill a gap, but to bring in a direct challenger to Alisson, who has rarely faced serious competition at Anfield. James remarked, “Liverpool is one of the biggest clubs in the world and it’s not often you get asked twice. Mamardashvili has come in as a direct challenger.”

Alisson has been fundamental in Liverpool's defensive solidity under Jürgen Klopp, renowned for his shot-stopping, command of the penalty area, and sweeping abilities, making him one of the most complete goalkeepers in the Premier League. However, the introduction of Mamardashvili, a calm and experienced 23-year-old who has been a mainstay for Valencia and the Georgian national team, brings a new pressure on Alisson to maintain his starting role.

David James emphasized Mamardashvili's readiness for the challenge, noting his level-headedness despite his youth and his suitability for the demands of Anfield. The arrival of a goalkeeper with such pedigree is seen as a clear message from Liverpool that Alisson must continue to perform at the highest level to keep his place.

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This shift underlines Liverpool’s competitive approach to squad depth and the importance of maintaining top performance standards, especially in key positions like goalkeeper.