1 week ago
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Former Liverpool target Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has shown solidarity with his Georgian teammate Giorgi Mamardashvili, following the latter's move to the Reds.
The goalkeeper made his debut in Sunday's pre-season friendly against Preston North End, where Arne Slot's team marked their first week of preparations with a 3-1 victory over the Championship side.
The ex-Valencia shot-stopper finally made his much-anticipated debut for the Premier League champions, having signed for Liverpool last summer and officially becoming a player this summer. He will share the pitch with one of the world's best, Alisson Becker, and got a taste of action at Deepdale, playing in the first half before being substituted for Freddie Woodman.
On Monday, Mamardashvili was formally introduced as a Liverpool player and carried out media duties with the club after joining.
Snippets from his interview were shared across the club's social media channels, attracting support from current and former players.
Among them was PSG star Kvaratskhelia, who was previously admired by the Reds before his high-profile transfer from Napoli. He showed his support by liking the post on the Reds' social media channel.
The Georgian stars could have been teammates at Anfield, as Liverpool expressed interest in the winger during the January transfer window. However, the forward ultimately chose to make the move to the French capital.
"I am happy, I am very excited to be here," the 24 year old Mamardashvili told the official Liverpool website.
"It's a huge moment for me because joining a club like Liverpool, it's not only a transfer, it's a dream come true for me.
"I feel ready, motivated and proud. I watched all the games with a different feeling, like I was already part of the team.
"I will never forget this day – when I signed a contract with Liverpool. It was amazing in Georgia. So many messages I received and everyone was so happy and excited."
The Liverpool goalkeeping department has undergone significant changes this summer, with Mamardashvili taking the place of league and cup-winning keeper Caoimhin Kelleher.
Additionally, Brazil legend Claudio Taffarel and Fabian Otte departed the club whilst Xavi Valero made his return.
The 24 year old will collaborate with the seasoned coach and Alisson, a goalkeeper whom the new Liverpool shot-stopper holds in high regard. He added: "Of course, what I can tell about Ali, he's one of the best goalkeepers in the world right now and I am so happy to work with him.
"I can't wait to start to work [with] him and learn from him."
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